Is dirty ductwork linked to our health issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy storms we had last month, I noticed a strange damp smell lingering in the hallway near the stairs. My wife and I have been experiencing some sinus issues and stuffiness lately, and now that we're trying to clean up the mess from the flooding, we found some really dirty looking ducts behind the walls. Has anyone else dealt with moldy or dusty air ducts causing health issues? What should we do about cleaning them properly?
Posted by Wei Ma
Asked on January 11, 2026 5:59 am
0
Yes, dirty ductwork can be linked to your health issues. In the UAE, especially here in Dubai, our climate and recent weather events such as storms can create conditions that favor mold growth or dust accumulation within air ducts. Mold spores and dust particles can circulate through your HVAC system, leading to respiratory issues like sinus problems, allergies, or even asthma attacks.

In Dubai, we've seen cases where dampness from flooding has led to mold growth in building structures and their associated systems. The environment here is particularly conducive for such occurrences due to the high humidity levels during certain times of the year. If you're experiencing a strange damp smell near your stairs and noticing issues with stuffiness or sinus problems, it's quite possible that your air ducts could be the source.

It’s highly recommended that you seek professional inspection and cleaning services for your ductwork. In the UAE, regulations like the Building Code (EN 12041) outline standards for HVAC systems to ensure they maintain good indoor environmental quality. However, just because something passes an initial check doesn’t mean it can't develop issues over time.

To address this situation, you could contact a company specializing in building sciences and indoor air quality like Saniservice. They have the expertise and equipment needed to thoroughly inspect your ductwork for any signs of mold or dust accumulation. Once identified, they can clean these areas properly using techniques that include thermal abatement methods if necessary.

If you decide to proceed with professional help, don't forget to ask about their certifications and references in handling similar cases. Also, ensure that they follow local guidelines like the ones set by Dubai Municipality for such services.

Remember, ignoring this issue could potentially exacerbate your health concerns. So it’s better to take proactive measures now rather than wait for things to worsen. If you need help, feel free to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a consultation and quotation.

Just be aware that stuffiness and sinus issues can also be caused by other factors like poor ventilation or allergens from outside; hence, it's crucial to get a proper diagnosis.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 13, 2026 10:53 am