AC leak caused black mold. Health risk? DIY or professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our master bedroom has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now we’ve found black spots spreading on the back of the wardrobe. My wife has developed a constant stuffy nose and a cough that won’t go away, and we’re starting to worry it’s connected. Is this something we can clean ourselves with bleach, or do we absolutely need to call a professional mold removal company here in Dubai?
Posted by Ryan Young
Asked on March 26, 2026 11:22 pm
Based on your description, this is a serious situation that requires immediate professional attention. The black spots spreading on the wardrobe are a strong visual indicator of a significant mold colony, and the persistent respiratory symptoms your wife is experiencing are a major red flag for health-related exposure. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold, a small leak can quickly lead to a major infestation.

Using bleach is strongly discouraged. It is ineffective on porous surfaces like wood, as it only bleaches the surface mold without addressing the root system. More critically, bleaching can agitate the colony, causing it to release a massive amount of spores and mycotoxins into your air, potentially exacerbating health issues. DIY attempts often spread the contamination to other areas of the home.

The connection between the AC leak and the symptoms is highly probable. Mold exposure can cause exactly the issues you describe: chronic cough, nasal congestion, and other allergic or respiratory reactions.

For a situation of this nature, a professional inspection and remediation are not just recommended; they are essential. Our process involves containing the area to prevent cross-contamination, using industrial-grade HEPA filtration to clean the air, safely removing the contaminated materials (like the wardrobe backing), and applying specialized antimicrobial agents to eliminate the mold at its source. Crucially, we also identify and rectify the moisture source—in this case, repairing the AC leak—to prevent recurrence. This is in line with best practices for maintaining healthy indoor air quality, a significant concern in the UAE.

For a thorough assessment and a definitive solution to safeguard your family's health, I urge you to contact our certified team. Please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 11:58 pm