How to clean and stop AC leak mold in bedroom?« Back to Previous Page

Our AC in the master bedroom of our Jumeirah villa seems to be leaking a bit of water onto the carpet underneath the vent, and now I'm noticing some black speckles starting to form on the nearby skirting board. I’m so worried it’s the start of black mold, especially with the humidity lately. What’s the best way to dry this out and clean it properly to stop it from spreading before it becomes a bigger problem?
Posted by Sunil Das
Asked on May 3, 2026 10:40 am
Stop the leak first. The black speckles are likely mold growth from the moisture. In Dubai's humidity, mold can colonize a damp surface within 24-48 hours. Turn off the AC unit to prevent further condensation and call a qualified HVAC technician to identify and repair the source of the water leak—this is the critical first step.

Dry the area immediately. Use a wet-dry vacuum to extract as much water as possible from the carpet and underlay. Then, set up a powerful fan to blow air directly over the damp spot and a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the room. This drying process must be aggressive and continuous until the carpet, padding, and subfloor are completely dry to the touch; this can take 24-72 hours.

For cleaning, once the area is dry, the small black speckles on the hard skirting board can be carefully addressed. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the affected non-porous surface with a solution of detergent and water. Avoid bleach, as it does not prevent regrowth. For porous materials like drywall or the back of the skirting, professional assessment is needed.

Given the location in a bedroom and the potential for hidden growth inside the AC unit or ductwork, a professional inspection is strongly advised. Spores from the AC can spread throughout the room. A proper assessment includes checking the evaporator coil and drain pan, which are common sources of internal mold that require specialized cleaning to prevent ongoing contamination and protect indoor air quality.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 3, 2026 4:22 pm