Is AC unit post-storm causing mildew odor?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a strange odor coming from the air vents in my living room. It smells like mildew and has persisted even after cleaning everything thoroughly. The AC unit is located right next to the window that got damaged during the storm. Could this be related to the filter needing replacement?
Posted by Akash Bose
Asked on January 17, 2026 4:00 am
0
Yes, it sounds like your AC unit might be the culprit for the mildew odor coming from your vents. The storm you experienced caused damage to the window near your AC unit, which could have introduced moisture into the system. In the UAE and Dubai, humidity can still be high even after rain, especially during summer months.

When there's excess moisture in an HVAC system, it can create a perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. This is particularly common with air conditioning units that haven't been checked or cleaned since the storm. The filter might have become saturated with water, leading to this issue. It’s important though to ensure no other parts of your AC unit were damaged during the storm.

Before you replace the filter yourself, it's advisable to get a professional inspection. In Dubai and UAE, regulations require that HVAC systems are maintained regularly for both comfort and health reasons. A professional can also check if any other components in your system have been compromised by water damage and need repair or replacement.

You may want to call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. They are experienced with handling such cases, especially after natural disasters like heavy rainstorms.

Once you get the go-ahead from a professional, replace the filter and any other parts that were affected by moisture. Ensure your AC unit is properly cleaned and disinfected. It’s also beneficial to check for leaks in the system and make sure all connections are tight.

Regular maintenance of your HVAC system can help prevent such issues in the future. In Dubai, it's common practice to have an inspection done twice a year – once before summer and once before winter when you start relying heavily on AC or heating systems.

Remember, maintaining proper air quality is crucial for health, especially with conditions like mold which can cause respiratory problems. Keep your home well-ventilated if possible, but ensure the ventilation system itself isn’t causing issues.

Stay proactive about your HVAC maintenance to avoid such unpleasant situations in the future!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 21, 2026 6:38 pm