Could duct mold cause my family's symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains we experienced last month, I noticed a strange musty odor coming from the ceiling in my bedroom. It’s particularly noticeable when I open the windows, and it seems to linger even after everything has dried out. My kids have been complaining of coughing fits and I’m starting to wonder if there might be something wrong with the ducts. Could poor ventilation or mold in the ducts be causing these symptoms?
Posted by Aarti Mishra
Asked on December 28, 2025 8:25 am
0
Could Duct Mold Cause My Family's Symptoms?

Yes, it is quite possible that mold growth within your ducts could be causing those musty odors and respiratory issues. In the UAE, particularly during rainy seasons like the one we just had, humidity levels can spike, leading to condensation in HVAC systems and eventually, mold growth if proper maintenance isn't observed.

In Dubai, the local building codes and regulations emphasize the importance of regular duct inspections and cleaning to prevent such issues. The Abu Dhabi Municipality, for instance, mandates that residential buildings undergo thorough inspections every five years or sooner if signs of mold are detected. In the event you've noticed unusual odors or symptoms after heavy rainfalls, it would be prudent to call in a professional.

The musty smell and persistent coughing fits your kids have been experiencing could indeed stem from airborne spores released by hidden mold colonies within your ductwork. These spores can irritate respiratory passages leading to allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other health issues especially for children and those with pre-existing conditions.

To act on this, i'd recommend reaching out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email them at hello@saniservice.com. They specialize in indoor air quality assessments and can conduct a thorough inspection of your ductwork. Remember, it's crucial not just to address the immediate symptoms but also to ensure long-term health by tackling the root cause.

If you decide to go ahead with an inspection, consider these points:
• Check if the company has experience working in Dubai or the UAE
• Ensure they use non-invasive techniques like thermal imaging and air sampling for accurate detection of mold
• Ask about their remediation process; it should include proper removal of contaminated materials and sealing off affected areas to prevent recontamination

Taking these steps will help you gain peace of mind knowing your home's air quality is safe once again.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 30, 2025 12:25 am