Is grey substance from dirty ducts harming my family?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last week, I noticed a strange greyish substance accumulating at the bottom of my AC filters in the living room. My son has been complaining about itchy eyes and a persistent cough that seems to get worse every day since then. Could this be from dirty ducts? Are there any immediate steps I should take to address this or is it something a professional needs to handle?
Posted by Amit Kapoor
Asked on January 8, 2026 8:43 am
0
Is grey substance from dirty ducts harming my family?

It is highly likely that the strange greyish substance you're noticing could indeed be coming from your air conditioning system's ductwork. In Dubai, we often experience dust storms which can lead to an accumulation of fine particles and debris in your HVAC system. This can certainly be a cause for concern, especially when it affects family members' health.

The greyish substance observed might contain a mix of dust, pollen, dirt, or even mold spores. Given the recent weather conditions, it's not out of the question that some of this could have found its way into your system. Your son's symptoms - itchy eyes and a persistent cough - are common complaints in households with poor indoor air quality.

While immediate steps can be taken to address this issue, it is advisable to get professional help for a thorough assessment. In Dubai, regulations regarding building ventilation and indoor air quality are stringent. Local laws like the Building Control Regulations 2014 require regular maintenance of HVAC systems to ensure they operate efficiently without causing harm.

Here's what you can do:

1. Clean your AC filters thoroughly with warm water and mild detergent. Make sure to dry them completely before reinserting.
2. Check the entire system for any visible signs of mold or damage. If you notice anything unusual, call a professional immediately.
3. Increase ventilation in your home by opening windows when weather permits. This can help reduce indoor humidity which is conducive to mold growth.
4. Consider running your AC on "fan-only" mode without the cooling function to circulate air and remove some of the trapped debris.

However, given that your son's symptoms are worsening, it might be wise to contact a professional service provider like Saniservice. They can perform a detailed inspection, identify any potential sources of contamination, and offer appropriate remediation measures. Don't hesitate to reach out to us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for health in Dubai's climate conditions. By addressing this issue promptly, you can help ensure a healthier living environment for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 10, 2026 2:12 pm