Could dirty ducts cause my children's cold symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in the hallway near the living room vents. My children have been complaining of persistent coughs and runny noses since then, especially early in the morning when the air conditioning is on full blast. Could this be related to dirty ducts?
Posted by Lauren Thomas
Asked on January 26, 2026 6:39 pm
0
Dirty ducts can indeed be linked to the symptoms your children have been experiencing. In the UAE, especially during the rainy season, moisture can accumulate inside air conditioning systems leading to the growth of mold and mildew within the ductwork. This is a significant concern given the humid conditions that can persist even after rainfall.

When mold and other airborne particles flourish in dirty ducts, they can get circulated throughout your home with each use of the air conditioning. This could explain why your children are suffering from persistent coughs and runny noses, particularly early in the morning when the air conditioning is turned up to full blast. The warm and moist environment inside your AC unit provides a perfect breeding ground for these microorganisms.

In Dubai, the Building Code requires regular maintenance of HVAC systems to ensure they operate efficiently and safely. However, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to overlook the importance of inspecting their ducts, especially if they haven't experienced any immediate issues like unusual noises or temperature fluctuations.

Given the symptoms your children are experiencing, I recommend scheduling a professional inspection as soon as possible. Saniservice is one company that specializes in indoor environmental quality assessments and can help identify whether dirty ducts are contributing to respiratory issues. Their services include cleaning and sanitizing HVAC systems to remove mold, bacteria, and other contaminants.

If you decide not to go with Saniservice, make sure the inspector you choose has experience working within the UAE’s climate conditions and regulations. They should be able to assess your ductwork thoroughly, identify any mold growth or debris buildup, and provide recommendations for cleaning and maintenance moving forward.

Remember, maintaining a clean indoor environment is crucial in Dubai's climate. Regular servicing of your air conditioning units can significantly reduce the risk of health issues related to dirty ducts. If you find that your symptoms persist after addressing potential ductwork issues, it might also be worth consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection today and breathe easier knowing your home environment is as clean as possible.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 30, 2026 6:24 am