Is duct cleaning causing musty smells?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last week, I noticed a strange odor lingering in our living room and kitchen. It's not a strong smell but it’s definitely off, like something musty or damp. The AC in our apartment seemed to be working overtime too, almost as if it was struggling. Have any of you had issues with duct cleaning causing similar smells?
Posted by Ali Al-Maktoum
Asked on January 23, 2026 12:48 am
0
Absolutely, Duct Cleaning can indeed cause musty smells, especially after such a heavy dust storm. In Dubai and the UAE as a whole, we've seen several instances where duct cleaning has been linked to the onset of odors like what you're experiencing - damp or musty smells that linger in living areas.

In our experience, these smells often arise from two primary causes: 1) residual moisture trapped within the ductwork during the cleaning process and 2) dust or debris left behind in the system. The AC working overtime could suggest there's more going on than just a simple clean-up issue; it might indicate that mold has started to grow due to these damp conditions.

UAE regulations do mandate regular maintenance of HVAC systems, including ductwork, but it’s crucial to ensure these processes are carried out properly. If the ducts weren't thoroughly dried after cleaning or if there was inadequate sealing during the process, moisture could have settled and created an environment for mold growth. This is more common in regions like Dubai which can experience rapid temperature changes between day and night.

For a thorough inspection of your system, it's highly recommended to contact a professional service provider. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice offer reliable duct cleaning services that follow best practices, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum cleanliness. They also provide post-cleaning dehumidification treatments which can help prevent mold growth.

If you're experiencing these issues, please consider scheduling an inspection with Saniservice or a similar company. Their experts can assess the condition of your ductwork, identify any potential sources of moisture, and recommend appropriate cleaning and remediation strategies to restore a healthy indoor environment for your home.

Remember, it's essential not just to clean but also to maintain proper ventilation and humidity levels within your living space to prevent such issues in the future. Saniservice can help you with that too by providing air quality monitoring services if necessary.

Don't hesitate to give them a call at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for more information and to schedule an appointment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 27, 2026 8:59 am