Is duct debris causing my child's cough?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm last month, we’ve noticed a persistent cough in our little girl when she plays in her room on the second floor. The ducts run right through that area, and I can’t help but wonder if there’s some debris or mold building up. Have any of you experienced similar issues with your family's health after cleaning or not cleaning the ducts?
Posted by Robert Lewis
Asked on January 1, 2026 11:17 pm
0
Duct debris can indeed cause respiratory issues like coughs. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we've seen several cases where ductwork has been a source of allergens and irritants leading to similar symptoms among children.

Firstly, it's important to note that regulations in the UAE require regular maintenance for HVAC systems, including duct cleaning. The Building Code in Dubai mandates that all mechanical services be inspected regularly to ensure they are free from obstructions and debris which could affect air quality. If your daughter has a persistent cough especially when she's playing on the second floor where the ducts run, it might well be due to dust or other contaminants accumulating in these passages.

I recommend having your system inspected by a professional, such as calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com. A qualified HVAC technician can assess whether there is any mold growth, debris accumulation, or other issues that could be causing the problem. They will also clean and sanitize the ducts to ensure optimal air quality.

In addition to professional cleaning, here are a few tips you can follow:
• Change your air filters regularly; it’s recommended to replace them every 3 months.
• Use high-efficiency filters which trap smaller particles like dust mites and mold spores.
• Keep the area around the ducts clean. Dust accumulation on walls or floors near the vents can also contribute to indoor pollution.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for everyone's health but especially important for children. If you notice any changes in your child’s breathing patterns or coughing, it could be a sign of poor air quality and should not be ignored.

Regular maintenance and professional cleaning can help prevent these issues from escalating. So don't delay, take action now to ensure your family enjoys clean, healthy air.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 4, 2026 4:10 am