Should I concern myself with air duct condition?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent damp smell lingering in my bedroom, even after running the fan. My landlord mentioned he handles all maintenance but wasn’t sure about duct cleaning specifically. Given that we’ve lived here for two years and have seen an increase in allergies among our family members, should I be concerned about the condition of the air ducts?
Posted by Deepa Chopra
Asked on February 7, 2026 5:17 am
0
Absolutely, you should concern yourself with the condition of your air ducts. Persistent damp smells and an increase in allergies are strong indicators that there might be something amiss within your HVAC system, especially after recent rain events. In the UAE, particularly Dubai, humidity can exacerbate these issues making it crucial to ensure proper maintenance.

Air ducts are like a hidden environment within our homes; they can accumulate dust, mold spores, and other allergens over time. Given that you've noticed a lingering damp smell in your bedroom despite using fans, there’s a possibility of moisture buildup or mold growth inside the ductwork. This is especially concerning considering you’ve lived here for two years and have observed an increase in family allergies.

UAE regulations mandate regular maintenance checks on HVAC systems to ensure they operate efficiently and safely. According to the UAE Standards Union (GS), which oversees standards and regulations, it's advisable to conduct professional inspections every 2-3 years, but this can be more frequent if you're experiencing issues like those you've described.

Given your situation, I recommend scheduling a thorough inspection of your air ducts. This will help identify any potential problems such as mold growth, dust accumulation, or water damage that could be contributing to the damp smell and allergy concerns. Such inspections are particularly important in areas prone to occasional rainfall, which can introduce moisture into the building envelope.

For professional assistance, you might consider contacting companies like Saniservice, who offer air duct cleaning services in Dubai. They specialize in identifying and addressing issues related to indoor environmental quality. If necessary, they'll perform a deep clean of your ducts, ensuring they're free from contaminants that can affect your family's health.

If you decide not to proceed with professional help immediately, consider some basic DIY steps like checking for leaks around windows or doors where moisture might enter the home. Also, keep an eye on condensation within your air vents; this could be a sign of hidden water damage.

In summary, it’s wise to take proactive measures to ensure your family's health isn’t compromised by potential issues in your HVAC system. Remember, early detection and action can prevent more serious problems down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 8, 2026 7:49 pm