Could HVAC dust trigger asthma?« Back to Previous Page

After the summer heat this year, I noticed a strong musty smell coming from the HVAC unit in our living room. It’s been there for about a month now, and it’s really bothering me because my asthma has been acting up more than usual. The coils are definitely dusty, but I’m not sure how urgent it is to clean them or if it could be causing these issues. How soon should we get this taken care of?
Posted by Yasmin Farah
Asked on January 5, 2026 5:41 pm
0
Yes, HVAC dust can indeed trigger asthma, especially in environments like Dubai where the climate is warm and humid. The summer heat you've experienced this year might have led to an increase in bacterial growth on your HVAC unit's coils – that musty smell could be a sign of mold or mildew. Dust mites, fungi, and bacteria can accumulate in these areas and become airborne when the air conditioning system operates.

In Dubai, with its high temperatures and humidity levels, it is particularly important to maintain proper indoor environmental quality (IEQ). The UAE has regulations that mandate regular maintenance and inspection of HVAC systems, ensuring they do not pose a health risk. According to Article 162 of the Building Code in the UAE, all HVAC systems must be serviced at least once every six months, but it's wise to consider an additional clean if you notice any unusual smells or signs of dust.

Given your asthma symptoms have worsened since noticing this smell, it would be prudent to get a professional inspection. Saniservice.com could help – they offer mold and HVAC inspections that can pinpoint the source of odors and assess the overall health of your system. A quick call to 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com will put you in touch with their experts who can provide a thorough evaluation.

Cleaning the coils yourself isn't always recommended, especially if you have asthma. If the dust is visibly heavy, it might be easier and safer to hire professionals who use appropriate equipment like negative pressure enclosures to prevent cross-contamination of airborne particles. They will also ensure that all components are properly disinfected and sanitized according to industry standards.

Remember, keeping your HVAC system clean not only improves air quality but can also enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning unit. This means lower energy bills in the long run as well!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 9, 2026 2:11 am