Is my child's cough from mold, and can I clean it?« Back to Previous Page
|
We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a large patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet, probably from a slow AC leak. Our 5-year-old has had a persistent cough for a couple of months that we can't shake, and we're starting to worry it's connected. Is this something we can handle ourselves with bleach from ACE, or do we absolutely need to call in a professional mold remediation company? If so, what's a realistic cost we should expect for a single room in Dubai?
|
|
Based on your description, it is a strong possibility that your child's persistent cough is related to the mold growth. The connection between chronic respiratory issues, such as a lingering cough, and exposure to elevated levels of mold spores is well-documented. In the UAE's humid climate, where air conditioning systems run year-round, condensation and slow leaks are a primary cause of mold. When an AC unit leaks, it creates the perfect damp, dark environment for mold, particularly the black-colored types like Stachybotrys or Aspergillus, to thrive and release spores into your bedroom's air.
Under no circumstances should you attempt to clean this with bleach from ACE. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall and wood, as it only bleaches the surface mold while leaving the root structure intact. More critically, improper cleaning will aggressively disturb the colony, causing a massive release of spores and mycotoxins into the air, significantly increasing your family's exposure and potentially exacerbating your child's health issues. For a situation involving a large patch, a suspected AC leak, and a direct health concern, a professional inspection and remediation are absolutely necessary. A certified company like Saniservice will first conduct a thorough inspection and air quality testing to identify the mold species and the full extent of the contamination, which is often hidden within walls or the AC system itself. Remediation involves containing the area, using HEPA filtration to capture spores, safely removing contaminated materials, and addressing the moisture source—in this case, repairing the AC leak. For a single room remediation of this nature in Dubai, a realistic cost can range from AED 2,500 to AED 6,000, depending on the extent of the damage and the required repairs. Given the health implications for your child, I strongly recommend you seek a professional assessment immediately. Please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a consultation. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: