Mold in AC making us sick: DIY or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

Black and green dust in your AC filter, combined with persistent coughing and a musty smell, strongly indicates a mould issue that has spread beyond just the filter. In Dubai's climate, where ACs run year-round and create constant condensation, this is a common but serious problem.

A DIY bleach solution is not recommended. It cannot reach the mould growing deep inside the ductwork and evaporator coil, and its high water content can actually feed remaining spores. The smell you still notice confirms the contamination persists.

Given your family's symptoms, a professional inspection is advised. The goal is to identify the specific mould species and the full extent of the contamination. A reputable inspector will use a borescope to visually examine the internal coils and ducts, and should perform air and surface sampling to be analysed by an accredited microbiology lab. This is critical, as some species commonly found in AC systems, like Aspergillus, can pose higher risks, especially for children.

In Dubai, look for a DMAC (Dubai Municipality Approved Contractor) certified provider. They follow specific protocols for assessment and remediation. The inspection will determine if a full AC cleaning and sanitisation is needed, which involves dismantling the unit to access and clean the internal components properly. Until then, running the AC may continue to circulate spores.