Should I clean ducts for musty smell?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell coming from the air vents in my living room. It’s really started to bother me because it’s not going away even after multiple uses of air fresheners. Given that we’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed this, should I consider having the ducts cleaned?
Posted by Sara Ahmed
Asked on February 4, 2026 4:01 pm
0
Absolutely, the musty smell coming from your air vents could be due to several factors but duct cleaning is definitely something you should consider. Given that this problem has persisted for months despite using air fresheners, it's highly likely that the accumulation of dirt, dust, and mold within the HVAC system may be causing such an issue.

In Dubai/UAE, indoor environmental quality can often suffer during humid periods or after unexpected weather events like heavy rain, which you mentioned experienced last month. The moisture from these conditions can lead to the growth of mold and mildew in your ducts, especially if they are not regularly maintained.

The UAE doesn't have specific regulations mandating duct cleaning but it is strongly recommended to follow best practices for maintaining a healthy indoor environment, particularly in areas with higher humidity or after weather events. Regular inspection and cleaning can prevent serious health issues like allergies, asthma attacks, and respiratory problems.

Considering the duration of your stay and the persistence of the smell, I would recommend having an expert perform a thorough inspection. This will help identify not only if duct cleaning is necessary but also any other potential sources of the musty odor. A professional service can provide you with a detailed report on the condition of your HVAC system and suggest appropriate remedial actions.

If you decide to take this step, make sure to choose a reputable company that has experience in the UAE market. You can reach out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or send them an email via hello@saniservice.com for more information on their services. They offer reliable duct cleaning and inspection services tailored to the local climate and conditions.

Remember, while using air fresheners might mask the smell temporarily, it doesn't address the root cause of the problem. Ensuring proper ventilation and maintaining clean HVAC systems is key to long-term indoor air quality improvement in your living space.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 6, 2026 2:20 pm