Is musty smell from ducts harming our family?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange musty smell lingering in the hallway near our bedrooms. My kids have been complaining of itchy throats and coughs, especially at night. Could this be related to the ductwork in our apartment? We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed these symptoms starting up again. Should we consider getting the ducts cleaned?
Posted by Juergen Dabrowski
Asked on January 17, 2026 2:24 am
0
Absolutely it's possible the musty smell and the symptoms your kids are experiencing could be related to the ductwork. In Dubai, we often see such issues after rainfall events as water can get into the HVAC system causing mold growth which then spreads through the air when the system operates.

The UAE doesn't have specific regulations for duct cleaning but best practices recommend regular inspections and cleanings especially in humid conditions or after weather incidents like heavy rains. Mold spores can travel via the air ducts and settle in your bedrooms, leading to respiratory issues like itchy throats and coughing, particularly at night when the AC is on.

Given that you've noticed this issue now but haven't had problems before, it might indicate a recent increase in humidity or a blockage allowing water to seep into the system. A professional inspection can help determine if indeed the ductwork needs cleaning and whether there's mold growth or other contaminants present.

I'd recommend calling 800-MOLDS (or 800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com for a thorough assessment. They'll be able to conduct a detailed inspection, identify any issues, and provide a cleaning plan if necessary. It's important to address this as soon as possible to prevent further health risks.

Remember, keeping your HVAC system well maintained is crucial in Dubai where we experience such weather variations. Regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing these kinds of problems from arising.

Stay healthy!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 22, 2026 9:51 pm