Can dirty ducts cause health issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange musty smell coming from the bathroom vents. The air conditioning unit in my apartment has been running non-stop lately, but it feels less clean than before. My kids have both been coughing more frequently over the past couple of weeks and I'm starting to wonder if there's something wrong with the ductwork. Could dirty ducts be causing these issues?
Posted by Nancy Brown
Asked on January 11, 2026 6:45 pm
0
Yes, dirty ducts can indeed cause health issues. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, where humidity levels and temperatures fluctuate significantly throughout the year, maintaining clean and well-maintained air ducts is crucial to ensure a healthy indoor environment. Dirty ducts can harbor a variety of contaminants such as dust, mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and even bacteria which can contribute to respiratory issues.

In your case, it sounds like the musty smell from bathroom vents and the increased coughing by your kids could be related to dirty air ducts. Rain events, especially in the UAE, can sometimes lead to water intrusion and subsequently create an environment for mold growth within the HVAC system. The constant running of your AC unit might not be enough to filter out these contaminants effectively.

It's important to know that local regulations such as EN 13780 in the UAE require that building services, including air conditioning systems, are regularly inspected and maintained. This is particularly true for residential areas like yours where family health could be directly impacted by poor indoor air quality.

If you suspect your ducts may be dirty or if you're experiencing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or other respiratory issues, it would be advisable to call a professional service provider like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) for an inspection. They can help identify the source of the problem and provide cleaning services tailored to your specific situation.

Remember that maintaining clean air ducts is not just about comfort but also about protecting the health of you and your family, especially during times when humidity levels are high or after rain events. Keeping up with regular maintenance checks can prevent issues from escalating into serious health concerns.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 15, 2026 4:15 pm