AC mold in Jumeirah: DIY fix or call a professional?« Back to Previous Page

A leak from your AC unit for months has created a chronic moisture problem, which is the primary condition for mold growth. The black patch you see is likely just the visible surface colony; the main structure (mycelium) is probably growing within the wall itself due to the sustained dampness.

With Dubai's high humidity returning, this will almost certainly worsen without addressing the root cause. DIY cleaning with bleach is not recommended for porous surfaces like drywall. Bleach only removes surface discoloration and does not kill the root structure. More critically, it poses health risks from fumes and can corrode electrical components within the AC unit.

For a situation involving a long-term leak and visible growth on a wall, a professional inspection is strongly advised. They will identify the full extent of the moisture damage and mold penetration, which is crucial for proper remediation. The process typically involves containing the area, safely removing affected porous materials, treating the cavity, and most importantly, fixing the AC leak to prevent immediate recurrence.

The cost for a professional job is variable and depends entirely on the extent of the hidden damage within the wall. A small, contained patch will be at the lower end of the spectrum, but you should request an on-site assessment for an accurate scope of work and associated cost. Be sure to choose a provider that can offer verifiable before-and-after testing to confirm the environment has been returned to a healthy state.