Should I worry about damp smell and dirty filters?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a strange damp smell lingering in the hallway near my bedroom. My landlord has mentioned that the building’s ducts are cleaned every year, but I’m not sure if it includes my apartment or how long ago it was done. The AC filter is quite dirty and I can see some dust build-up. Should I bring this up with my landlord, or could this be a sign of more serious issues related to the ductwork?
Posted by Pierre Dabrowski
Asked on December 28, 2025 5:55 pm
0
Absolutely, the damp smell and dirty filters could be serious. In dubai, environmental quality is a key concern, especially after rainfall. The damp smell sounds like it might be due to condensation or even mold growth within your ductwork. Although your landlord states that the building's ducts are cleaned annually, it’s important to remember that this might not include individual apartment units.

Dirty filters can certainly contribute to poor indoor air quality and may indicate that the airflow is compromised. This isn't just an aesthetic issue; it could be a sign of more serious problems such as mold or mildew growth within your ducts. In dubai, where humidity levels can fluctuate significantly due to climate control systems, these issues are quite common.

I'd recommend speaking with your landlord about the smell and asking for a professional inspection of both the ductwork and air quality in your unit. If your landlord isn't responsive or if you're uncomfortable discussing it directly, consider reaching out to a professional environmental inspection company like Saniservice. They can provide a thorough check-up and offer solutions if any issues are found.

You can contact them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an appointment. Remember, keeping your home’s air clean and healthy is crucial, especially in such a dry environment as dubai where there's little natural moisture. Don't let this smell go unaddressed.

If you decide to address it yourself, make sure to replace the filter with a clean one and ensure that your AC system has adequate maintenance. Regular checks on your ducts can help prevent bigger problems down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 1, 2026 1:43 am