Could dirty ducts cause these symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we experienced last month, I noticed a persistent musty odor in the hallway leading from our living room to the bedrooms. My kids have been complaining of coughing fits and my wife has mentioned feeling unusually tired lately. Given that we live in an old apartment building and the AC is quite dusty looking, could it be related to the ductwork? What symptoms should I look out for as a result of poor air quality from dirty ducts?
Posted by John Young
Asked on January 3, 2026 6:42 am
0
Could dirty ducts cause these symptoms? Yes, they very well might. In old apartment buildings like yours, especially those in the UAE where dust storms and sand can infiltrate systems, dirty ductwork can indeed lead to a range of issues including musty odors, coughing fits, and fatigue.

Dust accumulation in your air conditioning system can contribute to poor indoor air quality (IAQ). The ducts act as conduits for circulating air throughout the building. When they are not cleaned regularly, they can trap allergens like dust mites, mold spores, pollen, and even pet dander. These particles can be dispersed into your living space with each HVAC cycle, leading to uncomfortable symptoms in sensitive individuals.

In Dubai, you may find that dust storms bring an influx of particulates which can settle inside the ductwork. Over time, this accumulation can cause blockages or reduce air flow, potentially leading to mold growth if the environment is humid enough. Mold not only produces musty odors but also releases spores and other allergens into the air.

Given your symptoms - persistent musty odor, coughing fits in kids, and fatigue in your wife - it's highly possible that these are related to poor air quality caused by dirty ducts. In such cases, it's advisable to have a professional inspection done. The UAE doesn't have specific regulations mandating regular duct cleaning, but guidelines from the Building Services Engineers Association of the UAE (BSEA) recommend cleaning every 3-5 years depending on usage and environmental factors.

For a thorough check-up and cleaning, you might want to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email them at hello@saniservice.com. They have expertise in handling both residential and commercial HVAC systems here in Dubai and can provide detailed reports and recommendations for maintaining your air quality.

Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping a healthy indoor environment, especially during the dusty months. Keep an eye out for other signs of poor IAQ such as stuffy nose, headaches, or red eyes which could also be related to dirty ducts.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 8, 2026 2:42 am