AC leak causing black mold: DIY clean or call pro?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit for the past month, and now I’m seeing these small black spots spreading on the wall behind the curtain. It’s starting to smell damp, and I'm worried about it getting worse with the summer humidity. Is this something I can clean with bleach myself, or do I need to call a professional company to handle it?
Posted by Carmen Romano
Asked on April 7, 2026 8:47 am
Based on the symptoms you've described—black spots spreading on the wall, a persistent damp smell, and a history of AC leakage—this is a classic case of active mold growth, likely Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) or Aspergillus, both common in Dubai due to our high humidity and constant AC use. The AC leak has created a continuous moisture source, saturating the gypsum board and wallpaper, providing the perfect environment for mold to colonize deeply within the wall cavity.

Using bleach is strongly discouraged. It is a superficial biocide that is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall. It will only remove the surface discoloration while leaving the root system intact, leading to rapid regrowth. More critically, bleaching can agitate the colony, causing it to release a higher volume of harmful spores and mycotoxins into your bedroom air, significantly increasing your risk of respiratory issues, allergies, and other health effects.

This is not a DIY situation. The mold is a symptom of the water intrusion; both issues must be addressed professionally. UAE regulations, particularly from Dubai Municipality, have strict guidelines for indoor air quality and mold remediation to protect occupant health. A certified professional inspection is critical to assess the full extent of the contamination, identify the precise species, and determine the moisture source.

Our company, Saniservice, specializes in this exact scenario. We conduct a comprehensive assessment using moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air quality sampling to create a targeted remediation plan. This involves isolating the area, safely removing and disposing of contaminated materials, employing HEPA filtration to clean the air, and applying professional-grade, EPA-approved antimicrobials to eliminate the mold at its source. Finally, we identify and rectify the root cause of the AC leak to prevent recurrence.

For a proper assessment and to safeguard your health, I recommend you contact our specialists immediately. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 11:49 pm