Could duct debris cause my kids' coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last week, I’ve noticed a lot of debris gathering in our air vents, especially near the ducts running through the hallway where my kids play the most. It’s concerning because they spend so much time down there. Could this be causing their persistent coughing? What should I do about cleaning these ducts properly to ensure it doesn’t affect their health further?
Posted by Ken Xu
Asked on January 21, 2026 10:26 am
0
Duct debris can indeed contribute to respiratory issues like coughing. In the UAE and specifically Dubai, our climate often sees significant dust storms which can lead to a lot of particulate matter settling in your ductwork. This is especially concerning when children are involved as their immune systems may be more sensitive.

In your case, with the recent dust storm followed by debris accumulation, it's very plausible that this could be triggering or exacerbating your kids' coughs. Dust, mold spores, and other particles can circulate through your home’s air ducts, making their way into your children's breathing zones when they are playing in the hallway.

Given the potential health risks, I'd recommend scheduling a professional inspection to evaluate the condition of your ductwork. In Dubai, you can contact Saniservice on 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for this service. They will be able to assess if there is significant debris and advise on necessary cleaning procedures.

For proper duct cleaning in the UAE, it's important to use a reputable company that follows local guidelines. For instance, in Dubai, the Building Services Department (BSD) of the Municipality has specific requirements for contractors. Make sure the service provider you choose is certified and adheres to these standards.

Cleaning your ducts should be done by professionals who have the right equipment like vacuum cleaners with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and brushes that can reach deep into the ductwork. This will help remove not just visible debris but also microscopic particles that could otherwise remain hidden within the system.

Once cleaned, maintaining your ducts is key to preventing future issues. Regular maintenance every 1-3 years or after significant dust events like the recent storm can keep them in good condition. You might also consider installing air filters at key points in your HVAC system; a MERV 13 filter would be appropriate for capturing fine particles.

If coughing persists despite these measures, it's wise to consult with your pediatrician as there could be other underlying causes or conditions affecting your children’s health. However, addressing the ductwork should be part of any comprehensive plan to improve indoor air quality in your home.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 26, 2026 6:43 pm