Is damp smell from ducts causing issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent damp smell lingering in our kitchen despite cleaning everything thoroughly. It's really bothering me, especially since we’ve lived in this apartment for two years and never had any issues before. Could this be related to the ducts? What should I do about it?
Posted by Noor Jaber
Asked on January 3, 2026 9:54 am
0
Hey there! I've been dealing with similar issues here in Dubai and have some insights that might help you. Firstly, it's quite possible that the damp smell is related to your ducts, especially considering what happened after the recent rains. In the UAE, particularly in areas like Dubai where we experience occasional heavy rainfall, moisture can easily find its way into the HVAC system and get trapped within the ductwork.

In our region, regulations such as those outlined by the Abu Dhabi Municipality and the Dubai Municipality require that building owners ensure proper ventilation to prevent issues like mold growth. Given your description of a persistent damp smell even after thorough cleaning, it’s indeed worth having a professional inspection of your ducts and HVAC system. This will help determine if there are any deeper issues at play.

When you notice such smells or signs of moisture, it's crucial to act quickly as mold can grow in as little as 24-48 hours under the right conditions. If left unaddressed, mold not only affects air quality but can also pose health risks, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues.

I would recommend reaching out to a reputable company like Saniservice (you can call them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) who specialize in indoor environmental quality assessments and duct cleaning. They have the expertise to identify the source of your problem, whether it’s mold growth within the ducts or another issue.

In addition to professional help, here are a few steps you can take:
1. Ensure that your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans are working properly.
2. Check for any leaks in pipes or roofs near the HVAC system.
3. Clean the filters in your air conditioning unit regularly.
4. Consider running dehumidifiers in affected areas to reduce moisture levels.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is essential, especially given how our climate can sometimes create challenging conditions for keeping our homes and workplaces healthy. If you do decide to go with Saniservice or any other provider, make sure they follow best practices like ensuring proper ventilation during cleaning and using HEPA filters to capture allergens.

Hope this helps! Don't let the smell get to you—take action now to ensure your home remains a comfortable and safe place for all.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 4, 2026 1:46 pm