Could dirty ductwork cause odors and coughing?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new apartment a few months ago, I’ve been noticing this strange odor every time the AC kicks on in the living room. It’s especially noticeable when my kids are playing down there, and their coughing seems to have worsened recently. Given that it’s only been a couple of weeks since we had the ducts cleaned as part of our move-in routine, I’m wondering if this could be related. Could dirty or contaminated ductwork be causing these issues?
Posted by Duc Tanaka
Asked on January 8, 2026 10:08 pm
0
Could dirty ductwork cause odors and coughing? Absolutely. In the UAE, especially in Dubai where we have high humidity and temperature fluctuations, it's not uncommon for such issues to arise from improperly maintained or contaminated air ducts.

In our region, building codes and regulations often require regular maintenance of HVAC systems to ensure optimal performance and indoor environmental quality (IEQ). However, even with proper installation, dirt, dust, mold spores, and other contaminants can accumulate over time in the ductwork. This can lead to unpleasant odors, especially when your AC kicks on, causing discomfort for you and your family.

The scenario you've described—where odor becomes more noticeable during playtime in the living room and kids are coughing—is quite common. These symptoms could indeed be linked to dirty or contaminated ducts. As the air circulates through the system, these contaminants can get distributed throughout the home, affecting the air quality significantly.

Given that it’s only been a couple of weeks since your last cleaning, it might seem premature for such issues to arise, but sometimes existing dirt and mold spores can reactivate or become more noticeable after certain triggers like recent cleaning activities or changes in temperature and humidity levels.

To address this issue effectively, I strongly recommend having an inspection by professionals. They can use specialized tools to inspect the ductwork thoroughly and identify any hidden problems that may not be obvious during a quick visual check. In Dubai, you might consider calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an inspection.

If contamination is confirmed, professional cleaning of the ducts will likely be necessary to remove any accumulated dirt, dust, and mold spores. This process involves using high-pressure air blowers, brushes, and sometimes chemical treatments depending on the extent of the contamination. Regular maintenance after such services can also help prevent future issues.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for your family’s health. Keeping up with regular HVAC system check-ups and cleaning could save you from similar issues in the future. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance if needed.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 13, 2026 12:00 am