Could duct cleaning help with our symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in the hallway near our children's room. It’s not like anything else I’ve smelled before—it’s more of a stale, musty scent that gets worse when the air conditioning kicks on. My kids have been coughing more frequently lately, and I’m worried it might be from mold or dust getting circulated through the vents. Has anyone in this area had issues with their ducts after storms like these? Could cleaning our ductwork help reduce the symptoms for my family?
Posted by Petra Becker
Asked on January 18, 2026 9:33 pm
0
Absolutely, duct cleaning could help alleviate your symptoms. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we've seen an increase in respiratory issues following dust storms due to mold growth and accumulation of particulate matter within the HVAC systems. The musty odor you're noticing is a red flag indicating potential mold or mildew development, which can indeed be exacerbated by the recent storms.

In your case, it's crucial to ensure that your ducts are thoroughly cleaned and inspected. Dust storms bring in an abundance of fine particles, including pollen, dust mites, and even microscopic organisms that can settle deep within your HVAC system. When the air conditioning kicks on, these particles get circulated throughout your home, potentially leading to respiratory issues for your family.

According to local regulations in Dubai, it's recommended to have your ducts inspected by a certified professional at least once every 5 years. Post-storms, this timeframe may need to be reviewed more closely, especially if you're noticing changes in air quality or health symptoms like coughing and sneezing among family members.

A thorough duct cleaning can significantly reduce airborne contaminants and improve indoor air quality. This process involves disassembling the ductwork to remove accumulated debris, followed by a deep clean using specialized equipment. In some cases, mold remediation may be necessary if signs of fungal growth are detected during inspection.

If you decide to proceed with duct cleaning, I strongly recommend reaching out to a reputable company like Saniservice. They can provide a professional assessment and tailor their services to your specific needs. You can contact them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for more information on scheduling an appointment.

In the meantime, consider sealing any gaps around windows and doors to prevent further dust infiltration into your home. Opening windows briefly after storms to ventilate your property can also help reduce indoor particulates, but make sure it's done during less dusty periods of the day.

Remember, addressing these issues promptly can greatly improve air quality in your home, reducing the risk of respiratory problems for you and your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 22, 2026 11:22 pm