AC leaking, causing mold. How to clean and fix?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our Downtown apartment seems to be leaking water onto the carpet in the master bedroom closet, and now I’m spotting small patches of black mold on the baseboards. It's been getting worse over the past few weeks since the humidity really kicked in. What’s the best way to clean this safely and who should I call to fix the AC unit for good to stop it from happening again?
Posted by Linh Matsumoto
Asked on April 10, 2026 9:25 am
The AC leak is the primary issue that must be fixed first to prevent the mold from returning, as simply cleaning it is a temporary measure. The black patches you're seeing are a common result of condensation from a clogged drain line or a faulty drain pan, which is extremely frequent in Dubai's high-humidity climate where AC units run constantly.

For safe cleaning of the current mold, wear an N95 mask and gloves. For non-porous surfaces like the baseboard, a solution of diluted detergent or white vinegar can be used to wipe it away. For the carpet, the approach depends on the extent of the saturation. If the water has soaked deep into the carpet and underlay, professional drying and cleaning are essential, as DIY methods often fail to address the moisture trapped beneath, allowing mold to regrow.

You need two different professionals. For the AC repair, contact a licensed HVAC technician. They will clear the condensate drain line, check the drain pan, and ensure the unit is properly leveled and functioning to prevent future leaks. This is a standard repair for any reputable AC service company in Dubai.

For the mold itself, given its location inside a closet and on porous materials, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the full extent. In many cases, what’s visible on the surface is only a fraction of the growth behind baseboards or under carpets. A proper assessment, often involving moisture meters and sometimes air or surface sampling, determines the correct remediation protocol. Companies with their own microbiology labs can identify the mold type and verify that cleanup was successful through post-remediation testing, which is the only way to be certain the environment is healthy again.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 11, 2026 3:13 pm