AC Leak Caused Mold: DIY Clean or Professional Help?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah seems to be leaking a bit of water onto the wall, and now I’ve spotted a patch of black mold, about the size of a dinner plate, behind the bedroom wardrobe. It’s been getting worse over the last couple of weeks since the humidity really kicked in. Is this something I can handle myself with bleach from ACE, or should I just call a professional company for mold remediation, and what’s a reasonable cost in Dubai for a job this size?
Posted by Brian Jackson
Asked on May 9, 2026 2:35 pm
A leaking AC unit in Dubai's high humidity is a common cause for mold growth. The black patch behind your wardrobe indicates a moisture problem that must be fixed first. Simply cleaning the mold without stopping the leak will result in its immediate return.

For a patch the size of a dinner plate, DIY cleaning with a diluted bleach solution can be attempted if the underlying surface is non-porous, like tile or glass. However, if the mold is on drywall, plaster, or wood, these porous materials allow the mold to root deeply, making surface cleaning ineffective. The risk is that disturbing it can release a high concentration of spores into your living space, potentially worsening the problem.

Given the location behind a wardrobe, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can assess the full extent of the moisture damage, which is often greater than what is visible, and identify the exact AC leak source. Proper remediation involves containing the area, using HEPA filtration to capture spores, and removing any contaminated porous materials.

The cost for professional remediation in Dubai for a job of this apparent size is typically not exorbitant, as it is a contained area. You should request an on-site assessment for an accurate quote. The most critical step is to have your AC unit serviced and the leak repaired immediately to prevent recurrence, a standard and relatively inexpensive procedure for any HVAC technician.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 10, 2026 5:19 am