Are dirty AC coils causing our symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent heavy dust storms, we’ve noticed a strange odor coming from the air conditioning unit in our living room. My partner has started experiencing a persistent cough and my daughter has had a runny nose off and on for the past few days. Could these symptoms be linked to the coil cleaning or lack thereof? What signs should I look out for that might indicate dirty AC coils are affecting our health?
Posted by Nada Al-Hashim
Asked on February 5, 2026 8:18 am
0
Dirty AC coils could indeed be causing the symptoms you've been experiencing. In Dubai and the UAE, dust storms are common during certain times of the year, which can lead to a buildup of dirt, pollen, and other allergens in your air conditioning system. These contaminants can accumulate on the evaporator coil, hindering its efficiency and potentially releasing microorganisms that might irritate sensitive respiratory systems.

The strange odor coming from your AC unit could be an indication that the coils are dirty or possibly starting to develop mold. Mold thrives in moist environments like those found behind air conditioning units, particularly after a dust storm when there's increased humidity. The persistent cough you and your partner have been experiencing, along with your daughter’s runny nose, might indeed be linked to this issue.

In the UAE, it is recommended that AC systems are cleaned regularly according to local environmental standards. A professional inspection can help determine if the coils need cleaning or if there's a more serious issue at play. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) in the UAE has guidelines for maintaining indoor air quality, which often include regular servicing of HVAC systems.

If you suspect that your AC is contributing to these symptoms, it would be wise to call a professional service provider like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email them at hello@saniservice.com. They can assess the situation and provide necessary cleaning or maintenance services. Don't delay in getting this checked as prolonged exposure to contaminated air could worsen health conditions.

Remember, regular AC coil cleaning is not only about maintaining a pleasant environment but also ensuring the health of your family during such weather events. Stay proactive about indoor environmental quality in Dubai by keeping your HVAC systems well-maintained and inspecting them after severe dust storms or other incidents that might affect air quality.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 7, 2026 11:28 pm