Is old ductwork causing air quality issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storms we had last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in the living room whenever the air conditioning is on. My kids have been complaining of itchy eyes and a persistent cough that gets worse at night. The ducts are located right behind the wall unit in our bedroom area, and I can’t shake the feeling that this might be causing some serious health issues for us. Has anyone had similar experiences or concerns about the air quality from old ductwork?
Posted by Ghada Al-Qasim
Asked on December 29, 2025 2:07 am
0
Absolutely, old ductwork can be the culprit behind poor air quality and health issues. In Dubai and the UAE, we often experience dust storms that can introduce a lot of particulates into our indoor environment. If your ducts haven't been cleaned in years, they might have accumulated a significant amount of dust, mold spores, and other allergens that could be circulating through your home.

I've heard from several clients who had similar concerns about the air quality after dusty weather conditions. One of them reported a persistent cough and itchy eyes which seemed to worsen when their AC was on. This is quite common as old ducts can indeed become breeding grounds for allergens and mold, especially in our hot and humid climate.

In Dubai, we are required by law to comply with certain standards for indoor environmental quality. The UAE Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) has guidelines which recommend regular maintenance and cleaning of HVAC systems to ensure they operate efficiently without compromising air quality.

For your specific case, I would highly recommend a professional inspection of your ductwork. Saniservice, for instance, offers comprehensive duct cleaning services that can help remove accumulated debris and improve the overall air quality in your home. Their team uses advanced techniques such as negative pressure technology to ensure thorough cleaning while minimizing disruption to your daily routine.

If you decide to proceed with an inspection or cleanup, make sure to choose a reputable company like Saniservice who is licensed and experienced in this field. They can also provide advice on how to maintain your ducts moving forward to prevent future issues.

In the meantime, consider running your air conditioner on a high-efficiency filter if you have one installed. This can help trap some of the larger particles but won't eliminate the need for thorough cleaning of the entire system.

Remember, your health and that of your family is paramount. If you notice any worsening symptoms or concerns about the air quality in your home, don’t hesitate to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com for a professional assessment and cleaning service.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 3, 2026 11:02 pm