Could cleaning ducts help my kids' coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy smoke from a neighbor’s barbecue last month, I noticed a lingering smell in the hallway near the ducts. My children have been complaining of coughing fits especially at night, and I can’t shake the feeling that it might be coming from the vents. The AC has been on for most of the day to try to clear out whatever is there, but with two kids under 5, I’m really worried about their health. Has anyone had similar issues or knows if cleaning the ducts could help?
Posted by Matthew Wright
Asked on January 24, 2026 9:56 am
0
Cleaning ducts could indeed be beneficial for your situation. In the UAE, especially in Dubai where we experience high temperatures and humidity during certain times of the year, it's quite common to encounter issues like mold growth or dust accumulation in air conditioning systems. These conditions can certainly exacerbate respiratory symptoms such as coughing fits.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that your observations about the lingering smell near the ducts could be linked to the smoke incident last month. Smoke particles and other contaminants can get trapped within the ductwork over time, leading to unpleasant odors or allergens circulating throughout your home. The persistent coughing from your children at night suggests they might be sensitive to these irritants.

Given this scenario, I would recommend having a professional inspection done by a certified HVAC service provider like Saniservice, as they operate in Dubai and are well-versed with local regulations such as those outlined in the UAE’s Building Code (UAE-U 160). They can conduct thorough testing to identify if any contaminants or allergens are present in your ducts.

Cleaning the ductwork is a practical step towards addressing these concerns. A good professional will use methods that comply with national standards, ensuring safe removal of all debris and potentially harmful substances from your system. This not only improves indoor air quality but also enhances the efficiency of your air conditioning unit, which can reduce energy consumption and lower your utility bills.

Remember to keep windows closed during HVAC maintenance to prevent outside contaminants from entering. Additionally, maintaining proper indoor humidity levels and ensuring regular filter changes in your AC system can help minimize future issues related to dust or mold growth.

In summary, yes, cleaning the ducts could indeed alleviate your concerns regarding your children's coughing fits. But it’s crucial to take a proactive approach by having an expert assess the situation before proceeding with any cleaning activities. If you're concerned about costs or need more information, feel free to contact Saniservice at 800-66537 for a consultation.

Call now and breathe easy!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 29, 2026 5:10 am