Is gunk in ducts causing musty smell?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy storm last month, I noticed a strange musty smell coming from the ducts in our living room. The AC filter was pretty dirty, but there’s much more gunk inside that seems to be causing it. Have you had issues like this before, and how did you deal with it?
Posted by Hendrik Sanchez
Asked on December 28, 2025 9:05 pm
0
Absolutely, gunk in your ducts can absolutely be causing that musty smell. It's quite common for uncleaned duct systems to harbor moisture and debris which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew—both notorious culprits for producing unpleasant odors.

In Dubai/UAE, it’s important to note that the climate can create conditions conducive to such issues. Post-storms or heavy rains, the humidity levels can rise, creating an environment where moisture lingers in your HVAC system, especially if your ducts aren’t properly sealed or cleaned. This can indeed lead to a musty smell and possibly even health concerns.

In such cases, it's wise to get a professional inspection done, as local regulations recommend regular maintenance of your HVAC systems for optimal performance and indoor air quality. In the UAE, there are no specific laws mandating duct cleaning but guidelines from authorities like DMCC (Dubai Maritime City Authority) suggest that building owners should ensure their mechanical services comply with international standards.

If you decide to take action, I'd recommend reaching out to a company such as Saniservice, who can provide thorough cleaning and inspection of your ducts. They have experience dealing with similar issues in the area and can help identify if there’s mold or other contaminants that need attention. Their contact details are 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or you could email them at hello@saniservice.com.

Regular maintenance, like they offer, is key to keeping your indoor environment healthy and pleasant-smelling. They can also advise on the best practices for preventing these issues from arising again in the future, such as ensuring proper ventilation during humid conditions and checking your AC filter frequently.

Don't let this issue go unresolved; addressing it now could prevent more serious problems down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 3, 2026 1:23 pm