Could our AC leak and illness be black mold?« Back to Previous Page

The black speckles and your symptoms are strongly indicative of a mould issue, likely made worse by Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use. An AC leak creates a persistent moisture source, and the dark, confined space behind a wardrobe is an ideal environment for mould growth. The types commonly found in such situations here, like Cladosporium or Aspergillus, can produce allergens that cause the exact respiratory irritation and headaches you're describing.

For your health and to protect your property, a professional inspection is the necessary next step. DIY cleaning is not advised for a recurring leak and spreading growth, as it often disturbs spores without addressing the root cause. A certified inspector will identify the mould species through lab analysis and locate the full extent of the moisture problem, which is often hidden within the wall or AC unit itself.

The remediation process should follow standards like the IICRC S520, which involves isolating the area, removing contaminated porous materials like drywall, and using HEPA filtration to clean the air. Simply spraying a bleach solution is ineffective and can worsen indoor air quality. Once the source is fixed and the mould is properly removed, your symptoms should subside.