Could mold from my AC be causing our sickness?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit, and now we've started seeing these black spots along the bottom of the wall behind the sofa. My husband and I have both had a persistent sore throat and stuffy noses for over a week now. Could this mold be the cause of our symptoms, and what's the fastest way to get it properly tested here in Dubai?
Posted by Suresh Verma
Asked on April 14, 2026 1:50 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described and the visible black spotting, it is highly probable that the microbial growth from the AC leak is contributing to your persistent sore throats and congestion. The constant moisture from the condensation leak creates an ideal environment for mold spores, which are ubiquitous in Dubai's humid climate, to colonize and proliferate. When the AC system operates, it can aerosolize these spores and mycotoxins, distributing them throughout your indoor air, which you then inhale.

The species commonly associated with such water damage, like Cladosporium or Stachybotrys chartarum (often black mold), are known irritants and can cause precisely the symptoms you are experiencing, especially with prolonged exposure.

For a definitive answer, professional testing is essential. In the UAE, this involves a certified mold inspector conducting a comprehensive assessment. This includes moisture mapping with specialized meters, thermal imaging to identify hidden dampness, and air quality sampling to quantify spore levels indoors versus outdoors, which is a critical comparison for Dubai's external environment. Surface sampling of the visible growth can also identify the specific species present.

Given the health implications and the potential for the problem to be more extensive behind the walls, I strongly recommend against DIY cleaning. Improper handling can exacerbate spore dispersal. The fastest and most reliable way to address this is to engage a professional remediation company like Saniservice. Our certified teams are equipped to handle the inspection, testing, and full remediation in accordance with Dubai Municipality guidelines, ensuring the problem is resolved at its source. For immediate assistance, please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 15, 2026 9:23 am