Could chemical odor from storm harm family?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm last month, I noticed a weird odor lingering in my living room. It’s not exactly musty but more of a chemical smell that only seems to be stronger when I turn on the AC. My kids have been complaining about their throats hurting, and I’m worried it might be related to the air quality. Can I handle this myself or should I call in an expert?
Posted by John Williams
Asked on December 27, 2025 9:52 pm
0
The chemical odor you're experiencing could indeed be concerning. After the dust storm, it's not uncommon for such odors to linger due to particulates and potentially trapped chemicals. In dubai/uae, we've seen cases where storms bring in particulate matter that can contain trace amounts of industrial pollutants or even residual pesticides from agricultural areas.

Firstly, i'd suggest checking if your air conditioning system is clean. Dust and other debris can collect within the system, sometimes releasing odors when it's activated. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your AC unit could help alleviate this issue.

However, given that your kids are complaining about throat pain, it would be wise to consider a professional inspection. The UAE has strict regulations regarding indoor air quality (IAQ), though they may not always address individual complaints directly due to the complexity involved in pinpointing sources.

A professional assessment can provide clarity on whether the odor is related to the storm or if there are other factors at play, such as mold growth due to moisture from the storm. They will be able to test for various contaminants including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may not be visible but can certainly affect air quality and your family's health.

If you do call in an expert, consider saniservice.com - they're known for their thorough evaluations of indoor environments here in dubai. Don't hesitate to ask them about their methods; a good inspection should include air sampling and possibly moisture testing as well.

In the meantime, try to keep windows closed if the odor persists or worsens. This can prevent further entry of outdoor pollutants into your home. Additionally, running an air purifier might help in reducing odors and improving overall air quality.

Remember, it's crucial to address any IAQ concerns for the health of your family, especially with children who may be more susceptible to respiratory issues. If you're not sure or if the odor becomes bothersome, don't hesitate to take action.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 30, 2025 8:38 pm