Could ductwork cause persistent odors?« Back to Previous Page
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After the heavy smoke from the neighboring building's renovation last month, I’ve noticed a persistent odor lingering in the living room, especially when we first turn on the air conditioner. The smell is like something musty and it’s making my family members, particularly my kids, cough more than usual. Could this be related to the ductwork in our apartment? Should I consider getting the ducts cleaned or could this just be a temporary issue?
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Absolutely, ductwork can indeed be the source of persistent odors, especially after an incident like smoke exposure. In Dubai and UAE, our climate often sees significant air conditioning usage which can lead to moisture accumulation within ducts, creating a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. This is precisely what you might be experiencing – the musty smell could very well be from residual smoke or possibly mold growth due to the moist environment created by your AC system.
When you turned on the air conditioner after the renovation next door, it seems like the smoke particles got drawn into the ductwork. Once there, they can mix with dust and other airborne particles, leading to a lingering odor that's particularly noticeable when the air conditioning starts up. This is not uncommon in our region where high humidity levels can exacerbate such issues. Given your situation, I strongly recommend getting a professional inspection of your ducts. The UAE doesn't have specific regulations for duct cleaning but it’s good practice to ensure they are clean and free from contaminants that could affect indoor air quality. A professional will be able to assess the condition of your ductwork, identify any sources of odor or mold growth, and recommend appropriate remediation measures. If you decide to go ahead with a professional inspection, you can contact us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We have experience dealing with similar cases in the UAE and can provide thorough cleaning services that comply with best industry practices. In the meantime, try to improve air circulation by occasionally opening windows when it's safe, and consider using a HEPA filter in your air conditioning system which can help trap small particles including smoke remnants. Keeping humidity levels low with a dehumidifier could also prevent mold growth from developing further. Remember, addressing this issue promptly is key to maintaining good indoor air quality for you and your family, especially during the hot summer months when AC use spikes. |
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