Could dusty air purifier cause odors and health issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storms we had last week, I noticed a strange odor lingering in the air every time we turned on the air purifier. It’s like a musty smell that sticks around for a while before dissipating. The purifier is placed right next to my kids' bedroom, which concerns me as they’ve been complaining of throat irritation and coughing lately. Have any of you noticed similar issues after dusty weather, or could this be related to the filter needing replacement?
Posted by Gary Allen
Asked on February 1, 2026 11:51 pm
0
Dusty air purifiers can indeed cause odors and health issues. In the UAE, particularly during dust storms, air quality can drastically drop, introducing a variety of particles including dust, pollen, and even mold spores into our homes. These contaminants can accumulate on your air purifier's filter over time.

The strange musty smell you're noticing could be due to an old or clogged filter that hasn't been replaced since the last storm. Filters trap these particles but if they get too full, they might start releasing some of those trapped pollutants back into your home’s air. This can certainly explain why you and your family are experiencing throat irritation and coughing.

In Dubai, especially with the recent dust storms, it's not uncommon for residents to face similar issues. The sand and dust can carry more than just dirt; they can also bring in microscopic particles that may contribute to an unpleasant odor.

It’s crucial to ensure your air purifier is properly maintained. In the UAE, we recommend replacing the filter at least every 3-6 months or after a severe storm. If you've had the unit for quite some time and it's not being serviced regularly, now might be the perfect time to check its condition.

Considering how sensitive children can be to poor air quality, I would highly recommend scheduling an inspection with a professional environmental service provider such as Saniservice. They have expertise in HVAC systems and can provide a thorough assessment of your home’s ventilation system. Their contact details are 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com.

In the meantime, you could try cleaning the air purifier's filter yourself (follow manufacturer instructions carefully) and see if that improves things. However, for peace of mind and ensuring your family’s health is not compromised, a professional inspection would be highly advisable.

Remember, keeping your air quality clean in Dubai is more than just comfort—it's about maintaining good health during the harsh weather conditions we experience here.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 6, 2026 2:44 pm