Is duct mold causing our headaches and sore throats?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been making this weird damp smell for the past month. Since it started, my wife and I have both had constant headaches and a bit of a sore throat, especially in the mornings. I finally pulled the vent cover off yesterday and found what looks like black speckles all around the inside of the duct. Could this mold be the cause of our symptoms, and who should I even call to get it properly cleaned—the building management or a specific company?
Posted by Marie Richard
Asked on March 31, 2026 1:05 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black speckles in your AC duct are mold growth and are the direct cause of your persistent headaches and sore throats. These symptoms are classic indicators of exposure to mycotoxins and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) released by active mold colonies.

The climate in Dubai, with its extreme humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning, creates a perfect environment for mold. Condensation forms inside AC units and ductwork, providing the persistent moisture necessary for mold to thrive. The air blowing through the contaminated ducts then aerosolizes the spores and compounds, distributing them throughout your living space, which you are consistently inhaling.

In the UAE, building management is typically responsible for the central chiller system and main ventilation shafts. However, the responsibility for the internal ductwork within your apartment unit often falls to the tenant or owner. Simply cleaning the visible spot is insufficient. The entire system requires a professional inspection, including air and surface sampling, to identify the species and full extent of contamination.

For a problem of this nature, you must contact a specialized mold remediation company. We strongly recommend you call professionals like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our certified teams use specialized equipment such as borescopes for duct inspection and HEPA-filtered vacuum units for remediation, ensuring the mold is removed at the source and the air quality in your JVC apartment is restored to a safe, healthy standard. Do not delay, as prolonged exposure can lead to worsening health effects.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 2, 2026 7:23 pm