Could a dirty AC be causing our family's cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing nonstop and waking up with stuffy noses for the past few weeks. I’m starting to think it might be our AC unit in the master bedroom; it’s been making a gurgling sound and the air just doesn’t feel as cold as it used to. I’ve noticed some black specks around the vent when I change the filter. Could a dirty AC system actually be making us sick, and what kind of professional should I call in Dubai to test and clean it properly?
Posted by Thanh Tran
Asked on April 3, 2026 6:00 pm
0
Yes, absolutely. A dirty AC system is a very common and likely culprit for the respiratory symptoms you're describing, especially here in Dubai. The combination of our high humidity, fine dust (including sand and construction particles), and year-round AC use creates a perfect environment for microbial growth within the units.

The gurgling sound often indicates a drainage issue, leading to stagnant water—a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. The black specks around the vent are a significant red flag, strongly suggesting the presence of mold growth within the ductwork or on the cooling coils. When the AC operates, it can aerosolize these spores and contaminants, blowing them directly into your bedroom air, which you and your children then inhale throughout the night.

This contaminated air can cause persistent allergic reactions, sinus congestion, coughing, and other respiratory irritations, exactly as you've described.

For this situation, a standard AC cleaning service may not be sufficient. You require a professional Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) inspection. This involves:
1. Visual Inspection: Using borescopes to look inside ductwork.
2. Surface Sampling: Testing the black specks to identify the specific type of mold.
3. Air Quality Testing: Comparing spore counts inside the bedroom to outside levels to confirm the AC is the source.

Based on the findings, a proper remediation like hygienization—a deep cleaning and disinfection of the entire AC system using specialized equipment and UAE-approved biocides—is necessary.

For a thorough investigation and certified remediation that addresses the root cause of your family's illness, I strongly recommend you contact our team at Saniservice. We specialize in resolving these exact issues in accordance with Dubai Municipality guidelines.

Call us at 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Your family's health is paramount.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 6:53 am