Is air vent odor linked to poor indoor air quality?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new apartment a few months ago, I’ve noticed a persistent stale odor coming from the air vents in the living room. My husband has been complaining of a lingering cough and my daughter’s nose seems to get stuffy every time we turn on the AC. Could this be due to poor air quality or some kind of mold growing inside? What steps should I take to clean the air and make sure it's safe for us all?
Posted by Takeshi Chen
Asked on January 27, 2026 6:18 am
0
Absolutely, the odor from your air vents could be an indication of poor indoor air quality. In dubai and uae, it’s not unusual to find that stale smell coming from the vents, especially if you’ve recently moved into a new apartment. This can be attributed to various factors including improper ventilation, dust, mold growth, or even old furniture releasing chemicals over time.

In your case, the persistent odor combined with your husband's cough and your daughter’s stuffy nose could indeed point towards issues like mold or other contaminants in the air. Mold thrives in damp environments which can easily occur due to poor humidity control or water leakage in newly built homes. In dubai, where we experience rapid construction and high levels of outdoor pollutants, this is a significant concern.

Firstly, i'd recommend you to take action by cleaning the air vents yourself. You could use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any visible dust and debris from the vents. However, if the smell persists, it’s highly advisable that you contact a professional for an inspection as soon as possible. In dubai, companies like saniservice offer comprehensive indoor environmental assessments which include testing for mold, allergens, and other contaminants.

Additionally, consider improving your home's ventilation system. Ensure that all exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms are working properly to remove moisture and reduce the risk of mold growth. It’s also a good idea to keep humidity levels between 30-50% which can be achieved using dehumidifiers or air conditioners with appropriate settings.

Regularly checking for water leaks, especially around windows and doors, is crucial as these can create ideal conditions for mold to thrive. In dubai, where the climate is warm and humid during certain times of the year, this becomes even more important.

Lastly, consider using air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters which are effective in removing odors along with other airborne particles. They can be a temporary solution while you address the root cause of your air quality issues.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is not just about feeling better; it’s also essential for protecting your family's health and well-being. If you're unsure or if the situation does not improve, please do reach out to 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance.

Hope this helps!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 1, 2026 5:18 am