Should we hire a pro for AC leak and mold removal?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in our Jumeirah apartment has been leaking into the closet in the master bedroom for a while, and now we’ve found a big patch of black, fuzzy mold spreading on the back wall and some clothes. We tried wiping it with vinegar but the smell is still really strong and it came right back. For a job like this, should we just call a professional cleaning company, and roughly how much would it cost to properly fix the leak and remove the mold for good?
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Yes, for a recurring leak and visible mold growth, professional remediation is strongly advised. In Dubai's high humidity, mold can regrow within 48 hours if the moisture source isn't eliminated and spores aren't properly removed. The strong, persistent smell indicates a deep-rooted issue that surface cleaning cannot address.
The priority is fixing the AC condensate drain line leak, which is the root cause. A qualified HVAC technician should handle this repair first. Until the leak is stopped, any mold removal will be temporary. For the mold itself, professional remediation is necessary because the growth is on a porous surface (drywall) and has likely penetrated deep into the material. Proper protocol involves isolating the area, removing contaminated materials like the affected drywall section, and using HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to capture airborne spores. Vinegar or bleach only bleaches the surface and does not kill the root structure. Cost is variable and depends entirely on the extent of the leak repair and the square footage of mold-contaminated materials that require removal and replacement. For a standard apartment closet, the scope is often manageable. Reputable companies provide a detailed assessment and quote only after a physical inspection, outlining the necessary containment, removal, and post-remediation verification steps to ensure it is resolved for good. Always request a company that can provide documentation of the cleanup process and, if needed, air quality testing to confirm the space is safe. |
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