How to professionally clean flood-affected AC ducts?« Back to Previous Page

Our ground-floor apartment in Jumeirah 1 got hit pretty badly during the floods last month. We managed to get the water out, but now there’s a persistent damp, earthy smell coming from the AC vents whenever we turn it on, and I’m worried about mold growing inside the ducts. What’s the best way to professionally clean the entire AC system to prevent this and make sure the air is safe to breathe?
Posted by Barbara Clark
Asked on April 3, 2026 5:56 am
Based on the conditions you've described, that damp, earthy smell is a major red flag for microbial growth, likely mold, within your AC system. In Dubai's climate, with high heat and humidity, the flooded ductwork became an incubator. Here’s the professional remediation protocol we follow for flood-affected AC systems in Jumeirah and across the UAE.

First, do not run the AC unit. This is critical, as it actively spreads contaminated spores throughout your apartment. A professional inspection is mandatory. We use borescopes to visually inspect the interior of ducts and take air/surface samples to identify the specific mold types and spore counts, which guides the remediation strategy.

The cleaning process itself is comprehensive. It involves containment of the work area with negative air pressure machines (to prevent cross-contamination), followed by mechanical agitation and HEPA vacuuming of all duct interiors, plenums, and the AHU (Air Handling Unit) itself. The evaporator coils and drain pans require specialized antimicrobial cleaning. Finally, the entire system is treated with an EPA-approved, non-toxic antimicrobial fogging agent to eliminate residual microbes and inhibit future growth.

This isn't a DIY job. The UAE's Civil Defence and Dubai Municipality have strict regulations concerning environmental health and the use of certified biocides. Improper cleaning can worsen the problem and violate these codes.

Given the severity of the recent flooding, I strongly recommend a certified inspection. Our teams are equipped to handle this exact scenario. For immediate assistance and to schedule an assessment, please call our hotline at 800-MOLDS or 800-66537. You can also email us at hello@saniservice.com. Breathe safe.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 7:55 pm