Could old ducts cause my family's cough and smell?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell coming from the hallway near my bedroom. My son has also been complaining of a cough that seems to get worse at night when we run the AC. Given how old the building is, I’m worried about mold or dust mites accumulating in the ducts. Should I consider having them cleaned, and could this be causing these health issues?
Posted by Pallavi Kapoor
Asked on February 2, 2026 9:10 pm
0
Yes, old ducts could indeed be causing your family's cough and the musty smell. In Dubai and the UAE generally, older buildings may have accumulated dust, mold spores, or other allergens over time which can get circulated through your air conditioning system. This is especially concerning during rainy seasons when humidity levels increase.

The persistent musty smell you're experiencing could be due to moisture build-up in the ductwork leading to mold growth. Mold thrives in damp environments and can produce spores that may irritate respiratory systems, particularly affecting children or those with allergies or asthma. Additionally, coughing at night while running the AC suggests that indoor air quality might not be as clean as it should be.

It's wise to consider having your ducts professionally inspected and cleaned. In Dubai, regulations require buildings to maintain certain standards of indoor air quality, but routine maintenance like duct cleaning is often overlooked until issues arise. A professional inspection can reveal any hidden problems such as mold growth or excessive dust accumulation that could be impacting your family’s health.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a quote on duct cleaning and inspection services. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system, including proper ductwork cleaning, is crucial to ensuring the air you breathe is healthy and free from harmful contaminants.

Remember, it's not just about addressing immediate symptoms but also about preventing future issues by keeping your indoor environment clean and fresh.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 7, 2026 4:02 am