Why does musty smell keep coming back?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell coming from the corner of my living room near the floor vents. Despite cleaning the area multiple times with disinfectant and baking soda, the odor keeps coming back. The AC in this part of the apartment seems to be trapping moisture somehow. How can I prevent this issue from recurring?
Posted by Sophie Bakker
Asked on December 20, 2025 10:13 pm
0
The musty smell you're experiencing could be due to the moisture trapped within your air conditioning system. In Dubai and other parts of the UAE, humidity levels can remain high even during cooler months. This creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria that produce those unpleasant odors.

Firstly, it’s important to understand why this issue might persist despite your efforts. The floor vents could be collecting moisture due to poor air flow or because they're not properly sealed against the surroundings. Condensation can form within the AC unit itself if it's not designed to handle high humidity levels effectively, leading to mold growth.

To tackle this problem, consider these steps:

1. Professional Inspection: Given the persistence of the smell and its potential health impacts, I recommend a professional inspection by an environmental consultant or HVAC expert who is familiar with UAE regulations and conditions. This can help identify specific issues like leaks or insufficient drainage that might be causing the moisture buildup.

2. Regular Maintenance: Ensure your air conditioning system undergoes regular maintenance checks at least twice a year, more often if you live in areas prone to high humidity. This includes cleaning filters, checking for any water leakage from the unit, and ensuring proper ventilation.

3. Dehumidification: Installing dehumidifiers can significantly reduce moisture levels in your home, particularly in areas like the living room where you're experiencing issues. Dehumidifiers are especially useful during rainy seasons or if there’s a high risk of condensation forming on surfaces.

4. Ventilation: Ensure that your apartment is well-ventilated, both naturally and through mechanical means such as exhaust fans. This helps to keep indoor air fresh and reduces the likelihood of mold growth.

5. Dry Cleaning Products: When cleaning, use products specifically designed for mold removal. Baking soda can be effective but might not address all the underlying issues if there’s a moisture problem. Disinfectants that are proven to kill mold spores could also help in reducing the musty smell and preventing future growth.

6. Dry Out Affected Areas: After cleaning, ensure these areas dry out completely. Use fans or heaters if necessary. Moisture left behind can lead to further mold growth even after thorough cleaning.

Remember, keeping your living environment clean and well-ventilated is crucial in mitigating the risk of musty odors. If you're finding this difficult to manage on your own, don't hesitate to contact a professional service like Saniservice for help. Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you need assistance.

[Note: Occasionally, there might be typographical errors, capitalization mistakes, or punctuation issues as per the instructions given.]
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 24, 2025 4:08 pm