Is cleaning ducts urgent for health?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last week, I noticed a persistent musty smell in the bedroom upstairs. It’s really starting to get concerning because my kids have been complaining of coughing and sneezing more often lately. The ducts look pretty grimy too. How urgent is it to clean them up?
Posted by Monika Ramirez
Asked on January 5, 2026 3:05 pm
0
Cleaning ducts is indeed urgent and can have significant impacts on your family's health, especially considering the conditions you're experiencing. The musty smell and increased coughing and sneezing among your kids could be linked to uncleaned HVAC (Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning) systems. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, our climate often means that such issues can arise more frequently due to the seasonal changes and frequent dust storms.

Ducts are like arteries of your air conditioning system; they transport clean air throughout your home. But when these ducts aren't maintained properly, they can accumulate a lot of debris, dust, and even mold - especially after an event like the recent dust storm. This accumulation can lead to poor indoor air quality, which might explain why you're noticing those symptoms in your children.

In Dubai, regulations such as those outlined in the UAE’s Building Code (UAE-BS 12063) emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and cleaning of HVAC systems to ensure safe and healthy indoor environments. While it's possible that a quick vacuuming could help alleviate some issues, professional inspection and cleaning are highly recommended for several reasons:

1. Thorough Cleaning: Professional services use specialized equipment like negative pressure cleaners, vacuums, and brushes that can effectively remove built-up dirt, dust, and even mold from the ducts.
2. Preventative Measure: Regular maintenance can prevent future issues such as mold growth, which not only causes unpleasant odors but also poses serious health risks, especially to children and elderly individuals.
3. Energy Efficiency: Clean ducts can improve your HVAC system’s efficiency, reducing energy costs over time.

Given the severity of the situation, it would be wise to call in a professional service like Saniservice (Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537) for a thorough inspection and cleaning. They can assess whether there's mold present and provide recommendations on how to maintain your HVAC system going forward.

Remember, indoor air quality is crucial, especially during the dry season when dust storms are common. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system ensures that you and your family breathe in cleaner, healthier air.

If you need more advice or have any concerns, feel free to reach out.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 7, 2026 12:47 am