Is chemical smell from AC related to cleaning?« Back to Previous Page

After the AC technician cleaned our air vents last week, we’ve had a strong chemical smell in the living room, especially when the AC is on. My throat has started to feel irritated and my daughter complains of a headache every time she’s home from school. Could this be related to the cleaning products used by the technicians?
Posted by Ashok Kumar
Asked on January 1, 2026 3:54 am
0
Is chemical smell from AC related to cleaning? Yes, it is highly likely that the strong smell you're noticing could be linked to the cleaning products used by your AC technicians. In Dubai and the UAE, it's common for HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems to accumulate dust and debris over time, which can lead to a need for thorough cleanings.

When these cleaners use harsh chemicals or solvents to remove grime from the air ducts, they might release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that circulate through your home's ventilation system. This is especially noticeable when the AC unit starts running, as it pulls in fresh air and pushes out treated air, potentially intensifying the smell.

The chemical odor you're describing could indeed be causing irritation to your throat, which is a common reaction to exposure to such chemicals. Your daughter complaining of headaches might also be related to this, though it's important to rule out other factors too. Some people are more sensitive than others when it comes to chemical exposure and may experience respiratory issues or migraines.

In the UAE, there aren't strict regulations specifically for AC cleaning products, but it is crucial that the technicians use environmentally friendly and low-odor cleaning solutions whenever possible. Companies like ours ensure we follow best practices which include using biodegradable cleaners and ensuring proper ventilation during and after cleaning to minimize the spread of odors.

If this issue persists or if anyone experiences severe symptoms, I strongly recommend scheduling a professional inspection by our team. We can assess whether there's an overuse of chemicals and also check for any other potential issues like mold growth that could be causing these symptoms.

For now, try running your AC system on a lower setting to see if the smell decreases when it’s not operating at full capacity. Also, ensure you have good air circulation by opening windows or using fans periodically. If the problem continues, please do call us on 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for further assistance.

Remember, your health is paramount and seeking professional help can provide peace of mind.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 5, 2026 11:06 am