How to stop AC leak mold in Mirdif villa?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our master bedroom has been leaking a bit of water onto the carpet for the last couple of weeks, and now I’m seeing these small black speckles forming on the wall behind the curtain. We live in a villa in Mirdif and I’m really worried this is the start of a black mold problem, especially with how humid it gets. What’s the most effective way to dry everything out and clean the wall to stop it from spreading before it gets worse?
Posted by Ibrahim Al-Zahrani
Asked on May 6, 2026 11:20 pm
First, stop the leak. Turn off the AC unit and call an HVAC technician to fix the source of the water intrusion. A continuously damp environment is what allows mold to establish itself.

For the wall, you need to dry it out completely. Move the curtain aside and use fans to increase air circulation directly on the damp area. A dehumidifier is essential in Dubai's climate to pull the moisture from the wall and air; run it continuously for at least 48-72 hours. Do not attempt to paint over or scrub the speckles until the wall is completely dry to the touch and moisture meters read normal levels.

Once dry, you can clean small, superficial spots. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Gently wipe the area with a damp cloth and a detergent solution. Avoid bleach, as it doesn't prevent regrowth and can damage porous surfaces. For any staining that penetrates the paint or drywall, the material is likely compromised.

Given the persistent leak and your villa's location in humid Mirdif, this situation warrants a professional inspection. What appears as small speckles on the surface can often indicate a larger colony within the wall cavity. An inspector can use a borescope to check inside the wall and take air and surface samples for lab analysis to confirm the mold type and spore count. This is the only way to verify the extent of the problem and ensure remediation is complete.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 8, 2026 10:14 pm