Should I worry about ducts' musty smell?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent heavy dust storm in Dubai, I noticed a persistent musty smell in our office ducts that connect to my bedroom. It’s especially noticeable when the air conditioning is on full blast. Given how close my sleeping area is to these ducts, should I be concerned about any health issues? How urgent is it to have this checked by an expert?
Posted by Sara De Jong
Asked on December 28, 2025 1:39 pm
0
Absolutely, the musty smell from your ducts should be cause for concern. In the UAE, particularly Dubai, we experience varying climatic conditions that can contribute to such issues. The recent dust storm you mentioned could have introduced a layer of particulates and moisture within your ductwork, which is an ideal environment for mold growth.

Mold thrives in damp environments with temperatures between 4°C and 37°C - a range commonly found inside buildings. If the musty smell persists or worsens, it’s highly probable that you’re dealing with a mold infestation. Mold can produce allergens, irritants, and even mycotoxins which might trigger asthma attacks, coughing, wheezing, nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, and more severe respiratory problems.

The UAE doesn't have specific regulations for indoor air quality in residential or office spaces as stringent as some other regions, but the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHP) recommends maintaining a clean environment to prevent health issues. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is crucial, especially post-weather events like dust storms.

Given that your bedroom is close to these ducts, exposure could be significant, particularly during sleep when your body’s defenses are lowered. It's advisable to have an expert inspect the ductwork as soon as possible. This will help identify the source of the smell and ensure appropriate remediation measures are taken.

We recommend you contact professionals at Saniservice for a thorough inspection. They can assess the condition of your HVAC system, perform necessary cleaning or repairs, and provide guidance on maintaining healthy indoor air quality. Their number is 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or you can email hello@saniservice.com to book an appointment.

Remember, keeping your ducts clean not only improves the air you breathe but also enhances the efficiency of your HVAC system, saving on energy costs. Don’t delay in taking action; it’s better to address this issue now rather than later when it might become more serious.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com today!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 1, 2026 12:11 pm