Can I clean AC mold myself or call a pro?« Back to Previous Page

My AC unit in the bedroom closet has been leaking a little, and now I'm seeing these black spots spreading on the wall behind it. It's been slowly getting worse over the past month since the weather got so humid. Is this something I can clean myself with bleach or do I absolutely need to call a professional company to handle it?
Posted by Deepa Nair
Asked on March 29, 2026 8:12 pm
Based on the description of black spots spreading due to an AC leak in this humid Dubai weather, my professional advice is to call a pro immediately. Here's why:

What you're seeing is likely active Stachybotrys or Aspergillus mold, both common here. The leak provides constant moisture, and our high humidity is the perfect breeding ground. While a small, surface-level patch might be addressed with a DIY solution, your situation has red flags: the source is an ongoing leak, the mold is spreading, and it's located in your AC closet—a confined space where disturbing it can aerosolize spores throughout your bedroom and HVAC system.

Using bleach is a common mistake. It only bleaches the visible colour and doesn't kill the root structure. It's also highly corrosive and can release harmful fumes, especially in a poorly ventilated closet. More importantly, simply wiping the surface does not address the moisture source or the mold growing inside the AC unit and possibly the wall cavity behind it.

In the UAE, proper remediation requires isolating the area, using HEPA filtration to capture spores, and applying EPA-approved, non-corrosive antimicrobials. Attempting this yourself risks cross-contamination and incomplete removal, leading to rapid regrowth and potential health issues.

Given the ongoing leak and spread, a professional inspection is absolutely warranted. We can identify the exact species, the full extent of the contamination, and fix the root cause. For a proper assessment and quote, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 8:22 pm