AC mold from leaking unit: DIY or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit for a couple of weeks, and now I’m seeing a patch of black mold on the wall behind the unit. I tried wiping it with vinegar but it came right back and the dampness seems to be spreading. Is this something I can handle myself with products from ACE, or should I just call a professional mold remediation company right away? What’s a realistic price range to get a small area like this professionally treated?
Posted by Sandra Robinson
Asked on May 6, 2026 2:20 am
The visible mold is likely just the surface issue. In Dubai's high humidity, a leaking AC unit creates persistent dampness inside your wall cavity, allowing hidden mold to thrive. Vinegar only addresses surface growth and won't stop the root moisture problem.

For a recurring leak and spreading dampness, this requires a professional assessment. The remediation cost is driven by the extent of hidden damage, not just the visible patch. Treatments for a small area typically involve containment, removing affected materials like drywall or insulation, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial application to ensure the structure is dry and treated at the source.

Your first step is to stop the leak by having your AC unit serviced. Then, contact a certified mold inspector who can use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the wall's interior. They should provide a detailed protocol and post-remediation verification, often with lab testing, to confirm the space is truly dry and mold-free. This is the only way to prevent it from returning.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 7, 2026 2:50 pm