Is mold from AC leak causing our respiratory illness?« Back to Previous Page
|
The AC in our Jumeirah apartment has been leaking into the wardrobe for a while, and now all our winter clothes have black spots on them. My husband has had a constant stuffy nose and a cough for the last month that just won't go away. I'm really worried it's connected and that the spores are now circulating in the air. What is the most effective way to get this professionally cleaned and make sure it's completely gone for good?
|
|
Yes, the mould from your AC leak is very likely contributing to your husband's persistent respiratory symptoms. The constant moisture from the leak creates an ideal breeding ground for mould, and the AC system then circulates those spores throughout your apartment. The black spots on your clothes are a clear visual indicator of a significant infestation, and the proximity to your sleeping area means you're both being exposed for long periods, which commonly causes or exacerbates sinus congestion, coughing, and throat irritation.
For a situation this advanced, a simple cleaning of the wardrobe won't be sufficient. The mould is almost certainly growing within the AC unit itself, the drip pan, the ductwork, and potentially inside the wall cavity. The most effective approach is a professional remediation process. In Dubai's humid climate, simply killing the mould isn't enough; the source moisture must be stopped and all contaminated materials must be properly handled to prevent spores from spreading. Start with a certified indoor environmental professional to conduct a thorough inspection, including air and surface sampling. This identifies the mould species and the full extent of the contamination, which dictates the remediation protocol. Reputable remediators will then isolate the affected area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to prevent cross-contamination. They will safely remove and dispose of unsalvageable porous materials (like severely damaged clothing or insulation), then use specialized HEPA vacuuming and antimicrobial treatments on the AC system and structure. The final, critical step is a post-remediation verification test by a third party to confirm spore counts are back to acceptable levels before the containment is removed. Always ensure the company you hire provides documented before-and-after lab results, as this is your proof the problem was resolved. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: