Could vent odors be from mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm last week, I noticed a strange odor lingering in our living room, especially when we turn on the air conditioning. The vents are located right by where my children usually play with their toys. Given that they spend a lot of time down there and considering some recent coughing issues, I’m really worried about what might be in those vents. Could this be from old dust or mold buildup? What should I do about cleaning the ducts safely for my family’s health?
Posted by Michel Bernard
Asked on January 6, 2026 3:31 am
0
Could vent odors be from mold?

Absolutely, it is entirely plausible that the strange odor emanating from your living room could be due to mold growth. Mold thrives in damp and humid environments, which unfortunately are common in our region's climate, especially after heavy dust storms. The air conditioning units act as perfect breeding grounds for these microorganisms because they often have moisture accumulation within the ductwork.

In Dubai, we've seen numerous cases where old dust or even mold had collected over time, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health issues. The recent storm might have disturbed this buildup, causing it to circulate through your home’s air supply.

To ensure a safe environment for you and your family, I highly recommend scheduling an inspection with a professional service like Saniservice. They are experts in the UAE market and can provide thorough cleaning while also checking for any potential health hazards. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.

In the meantime, try to maintain good indoor air quality by ensuring your AC unit is serviced regularly and that filters are clean and replaced as needed. Avoiding moisture accumulation in your ducts will help prevent mold growth. Keep the area around the vents dry and consider running a dehumidifier if necessary.

Remember, while DIY cleaning can be tempting, professional services like Saniservice have specialized equipment to handle such issues safely and effectively, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily life.

Taking swift action is crucial in protecting the health of your children and yourself. Let's get those vents clean!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 10, 2026 10:22 pm