Could dirty air ducts be affecting my children's health?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing a lot lately, especially when they’re in their bedrooms, which are right next to the air vents. I’ve also noticed some dust accumulating on the furniture more quickly than usual, and I’m starting to worry about what might be lurking in the ducts. We’ve lived in our villa in Al Barsha for about three years, and I don’t think we’ve ever had the ducts cleaned. Could this be causing their symptoms, and how often should I really be getting duct cleaning done to keep everyone healthy?
Posted by Michael Brown
Asked on November 29, 2025 1:17 am
0
Yes, dirty air ducts could indeed be affecting your children's health, particularly in a region like the UAE, where dust and sandstorms can contribute to indoor air quality issues. When air ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate dust, allergens, mold, and other particulates that may be circulated through your home’s ventilation system. This can exacerbate respiratory issues, especially in children who may be more sensitive to poor air quality.

Given that you've noticed an increase in dust accumulation on furniture and your children are coughing, it's crucial to consider that these symptoms may be linked to allergens or irritants being blown into their bedrooms from the ducts. The UAE does not have mandatory regulations for duct cleaning in residential properties, but the general recommendation is to have your ducts inspected and cleaned every 3 to 5 years, or more frequently if you have pets, experience renovations, or live in a dusty environment.

For your specific situation, I would recommend a professional inspection of your HVAC system. A qualified technician can assess the cleanliness of your ducts and identify any potential sources of contamination. If significant buildup or mold is discovered, they can provide comprehensive cleaning and remediation services to ensure the safety and health of your family.

In the meantime, you can help improve indoor air quality by regularly changing your air filters, using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters if possible, and maintaining a consistent cleaning schedule to reduce dust accumulation.

If you suspect that your ductwork may be contributing to your children’s coughing or other health issues, I encourage you to take action. Contact a professional service that specializes in indoor environmental quality. You can call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance. Addressing these concerns promptly can help create a healthier living environment for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 4, 2025 11:18 pm