Should old ducts cause coughing and smell?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy storms we had last month, I noticed a strange, musty smell lingering in my bedroom. It’s pretty strong sometimes, especially when the air conditioner turns on. My kids have been complaining of coughing fits lately too, which has me worried about allergens. The vents in our apartment are quite old and haven’t been cleaned in years. Has anyone else experienced similar issues or should I consider having the ducts cleaned?
Posted by Noura Al-Sayed
Asked on December 19, 2025 3:51 am
0
Absolutely, old ducts can indeed be the root of your woes. In dubai, where we face diverse climatic conditions and high humidity levels, outdated ductwork can accumulate dust, mold spores, and other allergens that contribute to unpleasant smells and respiratory issues like coughing fits – especially in children.

In the UAE, particularly in areas like Dubai, regulations around building maintenance do not specifically mandate regular duct cleaning but it's widely recommended. The musty smell you're experiencing could be due to water damage from the recent storms leading to mold growth within your ducts. This is a common issue post-heavy rainfall or flooding events.

Old vents and ductwork are prime locations for harboring dust mites, bacteria, and fungi. These can spread when the air conditioning system kicks on, circulating these irritants throughout your home. Given that you’ve noticed this problem especially when the AC turns on, it’s highly likely that airborne contaminants from your ducts are exacerbating conditions inside your apartment.

For a thorough assessment and professional cleaning, I’d recommend contacting an experienced service provider like Saniservice. They can perform a detailed inspection to identify any moisture or mold issues and ensure your ductwork is clean and free of allergens. Their services in the UAE typically include deep-cleaning processes that eliminate these irritants effectively.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for health, especially with children who may be more sensitive. Regular inspections and timely cleaning can significantly improve the comfort and safety of your home environment.

If you decide to act on this advice, don’t hesitate to reach out at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. Taking action now could make a big difference in reducing those coughing fits and eliminating that musty smell for good!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 24, 2025 2:21 am