Could ductwork issues cause these symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we experienced last month, I noticed a persistent gritty residue on the floor vents in my bedroom. My daughter has also complained of itchy eyes and sneezing fits every time she spends more than an hour in that room. Could this be due to ductwork issues? What should I do to prevent these problems from recurring?
Posted by Mark Allen
Asked on December 14, 2025 12:46 am
0
Absolutely, ductwork issues can cause such symptoms. In Dubai and the UAE, we often see dust storms bringing in vast quantities of particulate matter that can easily infiltrate your home's HVAC system through open vents or gaps in the ducts. Once inside, this dirt gets circulated throughout the house, leading to a gritty residue on floor vents like you've noticed. This is especially common after a heavy storm.

The itchy eyes and sneezing fits your daughter experiences could be due to allergens trapped within the ductwork. These can include dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and pollen - all of which are more prevalent in post-storm conditions. The grittiness you're seeing might also have a significant amount of mold spores or fungal growth if there's been moisture accumulation.

It’s important to address this situation promptly. A professional inspection is highly recommended as per the UAE building codes and standards. Here, we adhere strictly to the guidelines set by organizations like EN 1829:2017 for ductwork cleanliness levels in commercial buildings. For residential areas, though not as stringent, it's still crucial to maintain a clean environment.

I would suggest calling 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or emailing hello@saniservice.com. Our team will come and conduct a thorough inspection of your ductwork. They can identify if there are any issues like mold, excessive dust, or debris buildup that could be causing these symptoms.

Once identified, our experts will clean the ducts using advanced equipment to remove all visible and hidden dirt. They’ll also recommend steps to prevent future issues such as sealing gaps, improving airflow, and regular maintenance checks.

By addressing this now, you can ensure a healthier indoor environment for your family, especially considering how sensitive some individuals are to dust and allergens. Don't let these storms catch you off guard; take action today!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 18, 2025 9:36 pm