How urgent are bedroom duct problems?« Back to Previous Page

After the intense dust storms last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell coming from the vents in our bedroom. My family has also been complaining of minor coughs and runny noses ever since we moved into the apartment two years ago. Given that it's been going on for so long, how urgent is this issue, and what could be causing these signs of duct problems?
Posted by Deepa Shah
Asked on December 28, 2025 9:04 am
0
Duct issues in your bedroom can indeed be concerning and might pose a serious threat to the indoor environmental quality of your apartment. The musty smell along with respiratory symptoms like coughing and runny noses from family members are clear indicators that something is amiss within your HVAC system, particularly with your ducts.

In the UAE, specifically Dubai, the air quality can be influenced by regional factors such as dust storms and high humidity levels during certain seasons. Given these conditions, it's not uncommon for minor issues to arise in residential HVAC systems. However, when problems persist over a period of time like two years, it becomes imperative to address them.

The UAE has regulations that require building owners to maintain the indoor environment to ensure occupant health and comfort. The Environmental Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) provides guidelines on how to manage indoor air quality which would be relevant here. The musty smell could indicate an issue with mold or mildew growth within your ductwork, especially if water has leaked in somewhere unnoticed.

Coughing and runny noses are common symptoms of poor indoor air quality, possibly due to allergens like dust mites or mold spores circulating through the HVAC system. These symptoms can worsen over time without proper intervention, potentially leading to more serious health concerns for you and your family.

Given the severity and duration of these issues, it would be prudent to schedule a professional inspection by an accredited environmental service provider. They will have the tools and expertise to assess your ductwork thoroughly and identify any underlying problems such as mold, dust accumulation, or even structural damage that may not be visible from the outside.

If you do decide to proceed with this, kindly reach out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email us at hello@saniservice.com for an appointment. Remember, early detection and remediation can prevent more extensive damage and health risks.

Acting now will not only help alleviate the current symptoms but also ensure a healthier living environment moving forward in your new apartment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 2, 2026 11:54 pm