Is noisy AC harming my daughter's health?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be running much louder than usual lately, especially when my daughter is sleeping in her room on the other side of the unit. It’s been going on for a couple of days now, and I’ve noticed that she wakes up feeling congested and coughing more frequently since then. Could this be causing issues for her or are there any steps I should take to check if it’s just a noisy AC or something more serious?
Posted by Arun Pandey
Asked on January 21, 2026 10:02 am
The noise from your air conditioning unit could indeed be impacting your daughter's health. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, indoor environmental quality is a significant concern due to the climatic conditions and the high reliance on HVAC systems for comfort. The increased sound level might not only disturb sleep but also contribute to respiratory issues, especially if it leads to more frequent nighttime coughing.

Firstly, it's important to understand that while there are no specific UAE regulations directly addressing AC noise levels in residential units (as per my knowledge up to 2023), excessive noise can certainly affect the quality of life and potentially health. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a maximum indoor sound level of 40 decibels for bedrooms, which your daughter's room seems to be exceeding significantly.

The congestion and frequent coughing could be related to several factors. The noise might be causing your daughter to sleep in an uncomfortable position or disturbing her breathing patterns, leading to increased respiratory distress during the night. Additionally, if the AC unit is not properly maintained, it could circulate allergens like dust mites or mold spores, exacerbating any existing respiratory conditions.

To address this issue effectively, I would recommend taking the following steps:

1. Contact a professional HVAC technician for an inspection of your air conditioning unit. They can assess whether the increased noise is due to a malfunctioning fan, worn-out components, or improper installation and provide necessary repairs.
2. Have an indoor air quality test done by a certified environmental inspector to check for allergens like dust mites, mold, and other particulates that might be contributing to her symptoms.
3. Ensure your AC unit has proper filters installed and is regularly cleaned and serviced according to local standards. In Dubai, it's common practice to clean the unit every 6 months or as per manufacturer recommendations.

Should you notice any worsening of symptoms or persistent health issues despite these measures, do not hesitate to seek medical advice from a healthcare provider in the UAE who can provide appropriate treatment for your daughter’s condition.

Remember, taking proactive steps towards improving indoor environmental quality is crucial. If needed, contact us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance and guidance tailored specifically to your situation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 24, 2026 9:54 am