Could duct issues cause our symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in the hallway near my bedroom. Our rental is an older building with central ducts, and it's been about two years since anyone has cleaned them. My kids have also been complaining of coughing fits lately. Given that we’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed this smell and their symptoms, should I be concerned about the air quality and could it be related to the state of our ductwork?
Posted by Mary Anderson
Asked on February 15, 2026 1:21 pm
0
Certainly! Duct issues can indeed cause the symptoms you're experiencing. In Dubai and the UAE, it's quite common to see older buildings with central duct systems that may require cleaning or maintenance, especially after significant weather events like rainfall.

In your case, the odor in the hallway near your bedroom could be due to moisture build-up within the ducts post-rainfall. This moisture can lead to mold growth, which is a known allergen and irritant for many people. Mold spores can circulate through your HVAC system and affect air quality throughout your home.

Your kids' coughing fits might also have an underlying connection with poor indoor air quality. Dust mites, pet dander, or even remnants of old mold growth from the ducts could be triggering their respiratory issues.

According to local regulations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it is recommended that HVAC systems, including ductwork, are inspected at least once every two years. Given that it's been about 2 years since your ducts were last cleaned, this might explain why you're experiencing these issues now.

It would be wise to call a professional inspection service like Saniservice or contact the MOLDS hotline (800-MOLDS / 800-66537) for an assessment. They can provide a thorough examination of your ductwork and ensure that they are clean and functioning properly. Additionally, they might suggest improvements to prevent future issues.

Taking action now could significantly improve the air quality in your home and alleviate the symptoms experienced by you and your family. Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for everyone's health, particularly those with respiratory conditions or allergies.

By addressing this issue promptly, you can ensure a healthier living environment for you and your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 19, 2026 2:40 pm