Is uncleaned ductwork causing poor air quality?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in the hallway near the HVAC unit. The ducts in my penthouse apartment seem to be collecting an awful amount of dust and debris despite regular cleaning by the building’s maintenance crew. Given that my kids have been coughing more frequently since we moved here two years ago, could this be related to poor air quality from uncleaned ducts? What steps should I take to ensure these are thoroughly cleaned or how often should they really be serviced to prevent such issues?
Posted by Lauren Robinson
Asked on December 18, 2025 8:40 am
0
Absolutely, uncleaned ductwork can definitely contribute to poor air quality in your home. In the UAE, especially places like Dubai where sandstorms are common, dust and debris can accumulate quickly within HVAC systems, leading to a variety of issues including odors, allergens, and even mold growth. This can certainly exacerbate respiratory problems for children or anyone with sensitive health conditions.

In your case, the strange odor and increased coughing in your kids could very well be linked to poor air quality caused by uncleaned ducts. The dust storm last month likely exacerbated the situation. Regular cleaning is key but given that even regular maintenance hasn't been enough, a thorough inspection might be warranted.

First off, it's important to understand that the UAE doesn't have specific regulations for duct cleaning intervals. However, in general, professionals recommend having your HVAC system and ducts serviced every 1-3 years depending on the environment, usage, and any recent issues like sandstorms.

Steps you can take:
1. Contact a professional inspection service such as Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com to assess your ductwork.
2. If the inspector finds significant contamination, they will likely recommend a deep clean which can involve vacuuming and sanitizing the interior of the ducts.
3. After cleaning, ensure that filters are replaced regularly and that the HVAC system is maintained properly.

Remember, when dealing with air quality issues, it's not just about duct cleaning but also ensuring good overall indoor air quality practices like ventilation, reducing moisture levels, and keeping humidity below 60% to prevent mold growth.

By taking these steps, you can significantly improve your home’s air quality and potentially reduce health issues for you and your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 19, 2025 6:10 pm