Is fog from AC an urgent issue?« Back to Previous Page

After the intense heat wave last month, I noticed a strange foggy mist coming from the air conditioning unit in my living room. It's only been happening during the evenings, but it feels like it could be causing issues with the system. How urgent is it to address this, and what might be causing the problem?
Posted by Ajay Joshi
Asked on January 30, 2026 8:29 am
Fog originating from the air conditioning unit in your living room is indeed an issue that requires attention. In Dubai and the UAE, such a phenomenon could be indicative of various underlying problems, including moisture accumulation or even condensation issues within the system.

Firstly, it's important to understand the mechanics at play. When air is cooled by an AC unit, it reaches its dew point, causing water vapor to condense into liquid form. This can result in visible mist if the humidity levels are high enough and the temperature differential between incoming and outgoing air is significant. However, for this foggy mist to appear only during evenings, there might be other factors at work.

One potential cause could be an over-saturation of moisture within the AC unit itself. In Dubai's hot climate, units can sometimes struggle with maintaining optimal humidity levels due to excessive usage or inadequate maintenance. This leads to water accumulation, which may not fully drain out and instead leaks into the system, causing fog during cooler evening hours.

Another possible scenario is an issue with the air filters. If they are clogged or dirty, airflow can be restricted, leading to moisture build-up within the system. This could also explain why you're observing this problem only in certain parts of your home at specific times.

Given the specifics of Dubai's climate and the potential implications for indoor environmental quality, it would be prudent to have a professional inspect your AC unit. Regulations in the UAE emphasize the importance of maintaining proper humidity levels and ensuring that air conditioning systems are regularly serviced to avoid such issues. The Building Control Department (BCD) and other local authorities often recommend these practices to maintain comfort and health standards.

In this situation, it would be advisable to contact a certified HVAC technician or an environmental inspection company like Saniservice (you can reach them by calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com). They will conduct a thorough check of your AC system and provide appropriate solutions based on their findings.

In the meantime, ensure that the AC unit is properly cleaned and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. This includes replacing air filters regularly, ensuring proper drainage, and checking for any leaks in the system. By taking these steps, you can prevent further issues and maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Remember, addressing such concerns promptly not only ensures your comfort but also complies with local building codes and environmental standards in Dubai.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 1, 2026 7:08 pm