AC leak causing black spots and musty smell: DIY or professional?« Back to Previous Page

That leak and the resulting black spots almost certainly indicate active mould growth, and the musty smell confirms it's likely spreading. In Dubai's high humidity, especially with ACs running constantly, a small leak creates the perfect damp environment for mould to thrive.

For a small surface area (under one square foot) on a non-porous surface, a thorough DIY cleaning with a vinegar solution can be effective. However, your situation has complicating factors that suggest a professional assessment is the wiser first step. The mould is on carpet, a porous material that is extremely difficult to fully decontaminate. The leak from the AC unit itself also means there is a high probability of mould growth inside the ductwork or the unit's drip pan, which you cannot see or properly clean yourself.

Attempting to clean it without containing the area can aerosolize the spores, spreading the problem throughout your apartment. A proper inspection involves moisture meters to find the full extent of the water damage and often air or surface sampling to identify the mould type, which dictates the correct remediation protocol.

In many cases like this, the carpet pad and a section of the carpet itself need to be removed. The AC unit and affected ducts must also be professionally cleaned to stop the source. For a verified resolution, a certified inspection that can pinpoint the moisture source and contamination scope is recommended before any cleaning begins.