Should we DIY clean our moldy AC or hire a professional?« Back to Previous Page
|
The AC in our apartment in Jumeirah Park has been making this damp, earthy smell for the past couple of months. My husband and I have both had constant stuffy noses and headaches that seem to clear up when we leave for the weekend. I just pulled the filter out and the back of it was covered in a fuzzy black and grey film. **What's the best way to get a proper mold inspection done here, and should we be cleaning that AC unit ourselves or is it dangerous?**
|
|
That fuzzy black and grey film is a clear sign of microbial growth, and the symptoms you describe are common reactions. In Dubai's climate, AC units run year-round, creating constant condensation that fosters mold if not maintained.
Do not attempt a deep clean yourself. Disturbing that growth can release a high concentration of spores into your air, potentially worsening your symptoms and spreading contamination. A surface wipe of the accessible filter is fine, but the core issue is inside the evaporator coil and drip pan, which require specialized tools to access and clean properly. For a proper inspection, hire a company that uses a borescope to visually inspect the internal coils and ductwork and, more importantly, can take air and surface samples for lab analysis. This identifies the mold type and concentration, which dictates the correct remediation method. The Dubai Municipality has guidelines for indoor air quality, and a professional inspection will provide a documented report that can be crucial for building management. Look for providers with certified mold inspectors who can explain their diagnostic process clearly. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: