Is AC mold causing our sore throats in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page
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Our AC unit in the bedroom has been leaking a bit of water onto the carpet for the last few weeks, and now there's a small patch of black mold growing near the skirting board. Since this started, both my husband and I have been waking up with stuffy noses and sore throats. Is this moldy water the likely cause of our symptoms, and what's the fastest way to deal with this properly in Dubai?
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Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold growth from the AC leak is the source of your symptoms. The black mold you're seeing, combined with the chronic moisture from the leak, creates an environment where mold spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) become aerosolized and are circulated by the AC unit. Inhaling these contaminants is a well-documented cause of upper respiratory irritation, including the exact stuffy noses and sore throats you and your husband are experiencing.
The fastest and most effective way to deal with this in Dubai involves a two-step professional process. First, the root cause—the AC leak—must be repaired by a certified HVAC technician to prevent recurrence. Second, the mold itself must be professionally remediated. Simply cleaning the visible patch is insufficient; the water has likely wicked up the skirting board and into the underlying carpet padding, creating a hidden reservoir of contamination that will continue to cause issues. In the UAE, reputable remediation companies follow strict guidelines akin to IICRC S520 standards. For a situation like yours, this involves containment of the area, HEPA filtration to capture airborne spores, removal of non-salvageable porous materials (like the wet carpet and pad), and thorough hygienization of affected surfaces. DIY attempts often disturb the mold, causing a much larger release of spores and potentially making the problem worse. For a proper inspection and to get a certified remediation plan in place, I strongly recommend calling our team. We can assess the full extent of the damage and ensure it's resolved safely and permanently. Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 to schedule an inspection, or email us at hello@saniservice.com. |
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