AC leak caused mold: clean myself or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

Persistent AC leaks in Dubai's climate almost always lead to hidden mould growth, and your scratchy throat is a common symptom of exposure. The black spots are just the visible part; moisture wicks into the gypsum board and under the carpet pad, creating a larger colony you can't see.

For a leak lasting months, a DIY bleach clean is insufficient and can be hazardous. Bleach only removes surface discolouration on non-porous materials but does not kill the root structure (hyphae) penetrating porous surfaces like drywall and carpet. It also releases harsh fumes that can worsen respiratory irritation. The real risk is the contaminated material behind the wardrobe and under the carpet that continues to release spores.

This situation requires a professional assessment. They will use moisture meters and borescopes to determine the full extent of the damage inside the wall and subfloor. In many cases, the damp drywall and carpet padding must be carefully removed and disposed of to properly resolve the issue. Simply cleaning the surface will not stop the mould from returning or alleviate your health symptoms.

The goal is to identify and eliminate the moisture source (the AC leak must be repaired first), then safely remove the contaminated materials. For a situation of this duration, a professional inspection is strongly advised to protect your health and prevent structural damage to your property.