Should I clean air ducts due to musty smell?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell in my living room, which is right next to the air duct. My kids have been complaining of coughing and sneezing lately, and it’s really worrying me whether our air ducts could be the source. Given how long we’ve lived here—two years now—I’m considering getting them cleaned but I want to make sure this isn’t just a coincidence. Should I be concerned about my family's health due to mold or other issues in the air ducts, and should I seek professional cleaning?
Posted by Fatima Hussein
Asked on January 4, 2026 8:31 am
0
Absolutely, the musty smell and symptoms your kids are experiencing could indeed be linked to issues within your air ducts. In Dubai, particularly after heavy rains like those experienced recently, it's crucial to consider professional duct cleaning as part of maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

Firstly, you should not ignore these signs. A persistent musty odor can indicate the presence of mold or mildew, which can thrive in the moist conditions created by rain and humidity. Mold spores are known allergens that can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, sneezing, and other symptoms. Given your family's complaints and considering you've lived there for two years, it’s likely the issue has been building up.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, regulations regarding indoor air quality aren't as stringent as in some countries, but keeping a clean and mold-free environment is still paramount to public health. The Dubai Municipality does recommend regular maintenance of HVAC systems, including duct cleaning, especially after significant weather events such as heavy rains.

Given the potential health risks, I strongly advise getting your air ducts professionally inspected and cleaned. A professional inspection can help identify not only if there are mold or mildew issues but also check for other contaminants that might have accumulated over time. This is especially important in Dubai's climate where humidity levels can be high.

To get started, contact a reputable company like Saniservice. They offer comprehensive duct cleaning services and can provide you with detailed reports on the state of your HVAC system. You can reach them by calling 800-MOLDS or via email at hello@saniservice.com for more information. It’s also wise to schedule an annual inspection, even if there are no immediate symptoms, as preventative maintenance is key.

Remember, a clean and healthy indoor environment is essential for your family's well-being. Don’t hesitate to take action before the situation worsens.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 8, 2026 1:49 am