How to safely clean AC mold and fix leak in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Our AC unit in the master bedroom of our Jumeirah villa has been leaking a bit, and now I’ve found this black, slimy mold growing in the corner of the closet behind it. It’s been humid for the last few weeks and the damp smell is really strong. What’s the best way to clean this mold water damage safely and who should I call to fix the AC leak for good?
Posted by Michiko Suzuki
Asked on March 13, 2026 5:57 am
Good afternoon. This is a very common issue we see in Dubai villas, especially with the high humidity we've been experiencing. That black, slimy growth is almost certainly Stachybotrys chartarum, a toxigenic mold that thrives on the constant moisture from an AC leak. Do not attempt to clean this yourself with bleach or other household products, as this can aerosolize the spores and make the contamination worse.

The correct protocol is a two-step process: remediation first, then repair.

For the mold, this requires containment. A certified professional should seal off the area, use HEPA-filtered negative air machines to create negative pressure, and then safely remove the contaminated materials. The moldy closet lining and any damaged drywall likely need to be discarded. The area will then need to be HEPA vacuumed and treated with an EPA-approved antimicrobial agent. This isn't a simple wipe-down; improper handling is a health risk and can violate Dubai Municipality's public health regulations regarding indoor air quality.

The AC leak must be fixed by a certified HVAC technician. The root cause is usually a clogged condensate drain line or a faulty drain pan. They will need to clear the line, ensure proper drainage, and check the unit's insulation. Simply wiping up the water without fixing the leak guarantees the mold will return.

For a situation like this in Jumeirah, I strongly recommend a professional inspection and remediation. Our team can handle the entire process from testing to safe removal and post-remediation verification. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an assessment. Let's get your villa back to a safe and healthy environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 14, 2026 9:12 pm