AC mold causing our sore throats; first step to fix leak?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold is a very likely cause of your symptoms. The black, fuzzy patches indicate active growth, and waking with respiratory irritation that improves when you leave the room is a classic sign of mold-related illness. The persistent AC leak provides the constant moisture mold needs to thrive in our humid climate.

Your first step is to address the water source immediately. Turn off the AC unit at the circuit breaker to prevent electrical issues and call your building's maintenance team to report the leak. In Dubai, landlords and property management companies are typically responsible for fixing AC issues that are part of the building's central system. Document your request and the visible mold with photos for your records.

Until it's repaired, keep the bedroom well-ventilated by opening windows when possible to reduce humidity and spore concentration. Do not attempt to clean the mold yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize spores and worsen the problem. The leak must be fixed by a certified HVAC technician first; only then can the mold be properly assessed and remediated. Given the symptoms and visible growth, a professional inspection is recommended to determine the full extent.