Is AC leak causing mold and making my child sick?« Back to Previous Page

Water leakage from an AC unit in Dubai's climate is a primary cause of mold growth. The constant humidity and condensation create an ideal environment for mold, especially in dark, stagnant spaces like a closet. The black speckles you see are very likely the beginning of a mold colony.

It is plausible that this is connected to your child's persistent respiratory symptoms. Mold exposure commonly irritates the airways, leading to coughing, congestion, and runny noses, particularly in children who are more sensitive.

For your situation, calling building management is the correct first step. They are responsible for fixing the AC leak at its source—this is non-negotiable. Simply cleaning the visible mold without stopping the moisture will result in it returning quickly.

Do not attempt a significant cleaning yourself. Disturbing the mold can release a high concentration of spores into your apartment's air, potentially worsening the situation. For a small area, you can carefully wipe the hard surface with a diluted vinegar solution, but wear an N95 mask and gloves. However, because the mold is on a porous wall and has likely affected your stored items, professional assessment is strongly advised. Winter clothes and cardboard boxes are porous and can harbor mold deep within, often requiring specialized cleaning or disposal.

A professional inspection can identify the extent of the hidden growth and the specific mold type, which informs the safest remediation method. In Dubai, proper remediation focuses on containing the area, removing contaminated materials, and using HEPA filtration to clean the air, ensuring the problem is resolved comprehensively.