Should I worry about mold from the chiller?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of our living room. My daughter has been complaining of a persistent cough, and it's making me really worried about mold or mildew. The chiller in the utility area seems to be dripping water, which could be causing this issue. Is there anything we can do to address this before it affects my family’s health?
Posted by Anna Ricci
Asked on January 15, 2026 3:21 pm
Absolutely, your concern about mold from the chiller is quite valid. Given the recent heavy rains and the musty smell you've noticed, it's indeed important to address this promptly as excess moisture can certainly lead to the growth of harmful molds. In dubai, we often experience such conditions due to our climate, especially post-rainfall.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that while chiller units are designed to manage humidity and temperature in utility areas, they can also inadvertently create damp conditions if not properly maintained or if there’s a leak. The dripping water from your chiller could be the source of moisture feeding mold growth. Mold thrives in environments with high relative humidity (above 60%) and temperatures between 25°C to 35°C - all of which are common in dubai.

Given that you've noticed a persistent cough, it’s wise to act quickly. I’d recommend contacting a professional for an inspection as soon as possible. In the UAE, companies like SANI Service specialize in mold inspections and remediation; their contact details (800-MOLDS or 800-66537) can be very helpful. They will perform a thorough assessment of your living area to identify the source of moisture and assess the extent of any potential mold growth.

In the meantime, you could take some initial steps:
1. Ensure proper ventilation in the utility area where the chiller is located.
2. Check for any leaks or condensation issues that might be causing excess water.
3. If you find visible signs of mold (such as black or green patches), cover these areas with plastic sheeting to prevent spores from spreading.

For further prevention, consider installing dehumidifiers in the utility room and regularly cleaning your chiller unit to avoid moisture accumulation. Regular maintenance checks on your HVAC system can also help maintain optimal conditions.

Lastly, remember that prolonged exposure to mold can indeed have adverse effects on respiratory health, particularly for individuals like children who may be more susceptible due to their developing immune systems. So, addressing this issue as soon as possible is paramount not just for the safety of your family but also to prevent any potential structural damage from excessive moisture.

Please do call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you need immediate assistance.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 18, 2026 2:44 am