Is mold causing my family's symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains we had last month, I noticed a musty smell in the basement where I store our wine chiller. It's been getting worse over the past couple of weeks, even though I’ve tried to keep it dry by leaving the door slightly open. My kids have been complaining of coughing and runny noses, especially when they spend time down there. Could this be related to mold growth in the basement?
Posted by Aiko Saito
Asked on February 6, 2026 5:08 pm
Absolutely, the musty smell and your family's symptoms could be linked to mold growth. Mold spores can easily spread through air conditioning systems and cause respiratory issues like coughing and runny noses, especially among children or individuals who are sensitive to allergens.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we have faced some challenging weather conditions that increase the risk of mold growth. Heavy rains followed by warm temperatures create an environment ripe for fungal proliferation. It's quite possible that moisture has seeped into your wine chiller's storage area, leading to mold development over these past weeks.

To address this properly and ensure the health of you and your family, it’s highly recommended to have a professional inspection conducted immediately. Saniservice, based in Dubai, can provide such services with their expertise and state-of-the-art equipment. They're reachable at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or by emailing hello@saniservice.com.

In the meantime, avoid entering the basement until a professional inspection has taken place to prevent further exposure to potential mold spores. If you must access the area, wear protective gear such as masks and gloves to minimize direct contact with any possible mold colonies.

Saniservice can perform comprehensive testing for mold species identification and assess the extent of contamination in your wine chiller's storage space. They will also recommend appropriate remediation measures based on their findings. This might include dehumidifying affected areas, cleaning surfaces, and possibly treating or removing severely impacted materials if necessary.

Remember to address any water leaks promptly to prevent future mold growth. It’s crucial to maintain proper humidity levels in your home, especially during the wetter months. Consider using a hygrometer to monitor relative humidity; levels should ideally be kept below 60%.

Taking these steps will not only help alleviate your family's symptoms but also ensure long-term health and safety within your living environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 9, 2026 11:23 am