Is the mold from my AC leak dangerous?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our Jumeirah apartment has been leaking a bit into the closet in the master bedroom, and now I’m seeing black spots on the back wall and our shoes. My wife has had a constant stuffy nose and a cough that won’t go away for over a month, and I'm starting to worry it's connected. Is this type of mold especially dangerous, and what’s the first step we should take to get it properly tested and cleaned?
Posted by Brian Robinson
Asked on April 11, 2026 9:30 am
Black mold growth from an AC leak can be a health concern, particularly for individuals with allergies or asthma. The constant humidity and condensation from a leaking unit in Dubai's climate create an ideal environment for mold, which often appears as black spots. The persistent respiratory symptoms you describe are a common reaction to prolonged mold spore exposure.

The first step is to stop the moisture source. Have an HVAC technician repair the AC leak immediately. Do not attempt to clean the mold yourself with bleach, as this can aggravate the spores and worsen air quality. For a situation involving building materials and personal items like shoes, professional assessment is recommended. A proper inspection will identify the moisture source and the extent of growth, often using tools like moisture meters. The actual health risk is determined by the species, which requires a lab culture of a sample.

In Dubai, reputable remediators follow standards like the IICRC S520 for mold remediation. The process involves containment of the area, HEPA filtration, safe removal of contaminated materials, and hygienization of salvageable items. Once the underlying cause is fixed and the area is properly dried, rebuilding can prevent recurrence. For verification, you can request a post-remediation test to confirm spore counts have returned to normal indoor levels.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 12, 2026 1:18 am