Will cleaning ducts prevent kids' coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we experienced last week, I noticed a layer of fine grayish residue on the floor of our living room. The HVAC filters are clogged with the same stuff, and my wife thinks it might be from the ducts not being cleaned in years. My kids have been complaining of persistent coughing, which started after the storm. Could cleaning the ducts help prevent this issue from recurring?
Posted by Maria Fernandez
Asked on January 22, 2026 5:35 am
0
Cleaning ducts could indeed be beneficial for your situation. The fine grayish residue you noticed and the clogged HVAC filters suggest that dust from the recent storm has made its way through the system, possibly contributing to the persistent coughing experienced by your kids. In Dubai/UAE, it's important to keep in mind that our climate can bring in significant amounts of particulate matter and allergens which could irritate respiratory systems.

Firstly, i'd recommend having a professional inspection done. This isn't just about duct cleaning; it’s also crucial to assess if the storm caused any other issues that might be affecting indoor air quality (IAQ). A professional can use advanced tools like thermal imaging cameras and laser particle counters to pinpoint exactly where problems lie.

In Dubai, regulations around HVAC maintenance are stringent to ensure optimal IAQ in buildings. Keeping up with regular cleaning of ducts is part of this. However, if your system hasn't been cleaned for years, it's imperative that you address the issue now before it worsens or causes more health issues for your family.

When hiring a professional service like ours at SanIService (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com), they'll not only clean ducts but also thoroughly inspect other parts of your HVAC system, such as coils and fans. These areas can harbor mold and bacteria that are harmful to health.

Additionally, consider implementing some preventive measures:
• Increase ventilation in your home especially during stormy weather.
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters which can capture tiny particles like dust mite waste, pollen, and even viruses.
• Regularly replace or clean HVAC filters at least every three months but more often if you live in a dusty environment.

By taking these steps, you should see an improvement in your family's health and comfort. Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is key to living healthier lives especially during unpredictable weather conditions like the recent storm.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 26, 2026 4:06 pm