AC mold causing scratchy throat and watery eyes?« Back to Previous Page

The black dust around your vent and your symptoms strongly suggest microbial growth in your AC system. In Dubai's humid climate, AC units are a prime location for mold due to constant condensation. The scratchy throat and watery eyes are common reactions to inhaling mold spores and other biological contaminants circulated by the AC.

You should arrange for a professional inspection. The black dust is a visible sign, but the main contamination is often hidden inside the ductwork or on the cooling coils. A proper assessment involves using a borescope to inspect the internal evaporator coil and air ducts. For a definitive answer, a lab analysis of a swab sample can identify the specific species present and confirm if it's mold or another allergen like dust mite debris.

Until it's inspected, avoid using that specific AC unit if possible. Wipe the visible dust with a damp cloth (wearing a mask) to prevent it from becoming airborne, but this only addresses a surface symptom. The underlying issue remains inside the unit. For remediation, the entire system—including the deep coil and ductwork—needs to be thoroughly cleaned with EPA-approved biocides, not just a superficial spray. The company you hire should provide before-and-after documentation, like lab results or photographic evidence from the internal inspection, to verify the cleaning's effectiveness.