Could ductwork issues cause these smells and coughs?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last week, I noticed a strange odor lingering in the hallway of my apartment. The smell is particularly noticeable when the AC kicks on and seems to come from deeper inside the ducts. My kids have also been complaining of persistent coughing, which worries me as they haven't had allergies before. Could this be related to the condition of the ductwork?
Posted by Amit Kumar
Asked on December 16, 2025 12:08 pm
0
Absolutely, ductwork issues can definitely cause those smells and coughs. In dubai and the uae, our climate is quite unique with its frequent dust storms and high humidity levels during summer months. These conditions can introduce a plethora of airborne particles into your home's HVAC system, leading to odors and potentially affecting air quality.

The heavy dust storm you experienced last week could have stirred up a lot of particulates that were dormant in the ductwork. When these get circulated by your AC unit, they might create unpleasant smells or trigger respiratory issues like coughing. The smell is particularly noticeable when the AC kicks on because the system is actively moving air through the ducts.

Regarding your concern about your kids having persistent coughs - this could indeed be related to the condition of your ductwork. Dust, mold spores, and other allergens can accumulate in poorly maintained systems and be released into the air every time your unit runs. Mold growth, which is common in humid or damp conditions, especially after a storm, can lead to unpleasant odors and respiratory issues.

In cases like yours, it's highly recommended that you have a professional inspection of your ductwork done. In dubai, companies like Saniservice adhere to local regulations such as the UAE building code which requires regular maintenance for HVAC systems. They can assess if there are any issues with mold or other contaminants in your ducts and provide proper cleaning.

You might want to give them a call at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or visit their website at hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. This will help ensure that the air circulating in your home is as clean and healthy as possible, especially given your children's symptoms.

While waiting for a professional assessment, you can take some preliminary steps like cleaning filters regularly (at least once every three months), checking the outdoor unit of your AC system for debris or blockages, and opening windows occasionally to bring fresh air into your home. These actions will help minimize potential irritants until you receive proper servicing.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial, especially in such challenging climatic conditions. Taking proactive measures now can prevent further health issues for you and your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 18, 2025 2:36 am