Can I cleanmusty vents myself?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last month, I noticed a distinct musty odor coming from the air vents in the living room. It's been lingering for days, even after running the AC to try and clear it out. My family has been complaining of minor coughing and sneezing too. Do you think I can clean this myself or should I call an HVAC professional?
Posted by Xiao Tran
Asked on January 17, 2026 10:13 am
0
Absolutely, i can understand your concern about those dirty ducts causing that musty odor. In dubai uae, we have seen similar issues post dust storms and it’s quite common.

Firstly, the musty odor you’re experiencing could be due to moisture accumulation in the air conditioning system or stagnant water behind the vents. This is especially prevalent during the dust events when particles like sand and dust are drawn into your ductwork. The UAE has its own regulations regarding indoor environmental quality, but it's always a good practice to ensure that your HVAC system meets these standards.

Cleaning dirty ducts can be a do-it-yourself project, but there are some important steps you should follow:

1. Turn off the ac: Before starting any cleaning, make sure to switch off the air conditioning unit and let all components cool down.
2. Dust filters: Start with the air filter – replace it if it’s dirty or clogged. This is a quick fix that can improve air quality in your home.
3. Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently clean the vents and grilles, removing any visible dust and debris.
4. Disinfectants: For those stubborn odors, you might want to use an EPA-approved disinfectant spray to clean the inside of the ducts. Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions carefully.

However, if your family has been experiencing symptoms like coughing and sneezing, it could be a sign that there's more than just dust or mold in those ducts. Mold spores can thrive in damp conditions within the ductwork, leading to respiratory issues. In this case, i’d recommend calling an HVAC professional for a thorough inspection and cleaning.

Professional services are especially important because they have the right equipment and expertise to ensure that your entire system is clean and healthy. They can also identify any underlying issues like water leaks or improper ventilation which might be contributing to the problem.

Remember, in dubai uae, it's crucial to maintain good indoor air quality due to the climate and frequent dust events. By keeping up with regular maintenance, you can minimize health risks and extend the life of your AC system.

Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com if you need assistance. Taking care of these issues promptly will help ensure a healthier indoor environment for you and your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 19, 2026 3:36 pm