Could old ducts cause our kids' breathing problems?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in my child’s bedroom, and recently both he and his sister have started sneezing and coughing more than usual. The ducts in our apartment are over 5 years old and haven’t been cleaned since we moved in. Could this be causing their respiratory issues? What should I do about cleaning the ducts to ensure a healthier environment for my family?
Posted by Barbara Brown
Asked on January 10, 2026 2:06 pm
0
Could old ducts cause our kids' breathing problems? That's a valid concern and something that needs to be looked into. In Dubai/UAE, especially after the rain last month, it’s possible that moisture has caused some issues within your apartment’s ductwork. Old and uncleaned ducts can indeed harbor mold, dust, and other allergens which may contribute to respiratory problems in children.

Firstly, it's important to understand that the UAE doesn't have specific regulations mandating regular cleaning of residential ducts, but health and safety guidelines recommend maintaining a clean environment at home. Particularly in areas like Dubai where humidity can be high, keeping your air conditioning and ventilation systems clean is crucial for reducing the risk of mold growth.

The odors you're noticing and your children's increased symptoms could indeed be linked to issues within the ducts. Mold can produce spores that are easily spread through the air and inhaled, leading to respiratory irritation, sneezing, and coughing. Dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens can also accumulate over time, especially if your ducts haven't been cleaned in five years.

What should you do? It's recommended to have a professional inspection of your ductwork. This will help identify any issues such as mold growth or blockages that might be affecting air quality. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice can provide this service. They offer expert inspections and cleaning services tailored for the local climate conditions.

If you decide to go ahead with the cleaning, it’s important to ensure the company uses proper techniques to avoid cross-contamination. After cleaning, they should seal any gaps or leaks in your ducts to maintain good airflow and prevent future issues.

In addition to cleaning, maintaining indoor air quality can be improved by using HEPA filters in your air conditioning units, keeping humidity levels low with dehumidifiers, and regularly changing HVAC filters.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a professional assessment. Taking these steps will not only address the immediate concerns but also help create a healthier environment for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 12, 2026 1:11 am