Could dirty ducts cause lingering odors?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in my living room. It’s not as strong as when it first hit but it’s definitely there. The AC filters were pretty dirty, but after replacing them, the smell didn’t go away completely. Could this be related to the ducts needing cleaning? Should I even bother given that we’ve only lived here for two years?
Posted by Yuko Wang
Asked on December 21, 2025 9:38 pm
0
Could dirty ducts cause lingering odors?

Certainly! In the UAE, especially during the dusty months like the one we had recently, it's quite common to experience an odd smell that lingers even after cleaning filters. This could indeed be related to your air duct system.

In Dubai and across the UAE, dust storms can introduce a significant amount of particulate matter into indoor environments. These particles can settle in various parts of your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, including the ducts. Over time, these particles can decompose or interact with moisture in the air, producing an odor that may not be immediately noticeable but can persist.

Given your situation where you've only been living here for two years, it’s plausible that dust and debris might have accumulated enough to cause this issue. However, before jumping into cleaning ducts yourself, I recommend having a professional inspection done. The regulations in the UAE are stringent when it comes to indoor air quality, and ensuring a proper clean is crucial.

Professional duct cleaning can remove not only dust but also mold spores, which can grow in damp conditions within your HVAC system. If left unchecked, these can indeed cause lingering odors that may seem like they won't go away no matter how often you change filters or vacuum the house.

If you do decide to proceed with a professional service, I’d suggest contacting companies like Saniservice, who specialize in such inspections and cleanings. You can reach them via their hotline at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or through email at hello@saniservice.com. They’ll be able to assess your system properly and provide a thorough cleaning that should resolve the odor issue.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for health and comfort in this region. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system can prevent these kinds of issues from occurring.

If you do give us a call or email, we can help schedule an inspection at your earliest convenience.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 23, 2025 3:28 am