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

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a little onto the carpet for a couple of weeks, and now I’m seeing a few small black spots on the wall behind the unit and the smell is getting really strong. I'm worried it's spreading inside the wall. Is this something I can clean with bleach myself, or do I need to call a professional company to handle it properly?
Posted by Michael Jackson
Asked on March 28, 2026 5:43 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described—leaking AC, black spots on the wall, and a strong musty odor—this is a classic and serious scenario we encounter daily in the UAE. The high humidity here acts like a catalyst, turning a small water leak into a major mold infestation problem very quickly.

The critical issue is that what you see on the surface is often just the tip of the iceberg. Mold thrives in dark, damp cavities. That smell is a tell-tale sign that microbial growth is already established inside your wall, likely on the back of the drywall and within the insulation. Using bleach is a common mistake; it is ineffective on porous materials like drywall and carpet, only bleaching the surface color while leaving the root structure intact. It can also release harmful fumes and doesn't address the moisture source.

Per Dubai Municipality guidelines, addressing the root cause (the AC leak) and the resultant contamination is mandatory for health and safety. A DIY approach risks inadequate containment, spreading spores to other parts of your home, and potential exposure to mycotoxins.

You absolutely need a professional assessment. We use thermal imaging cameras and borescopes to see inside the walls, identify the full extent, and then formulate a remediation plan that includes proper containment, air scrubbing, and removal of affected materials. This is not a clean-up job; it's a controlled remediation process.

For a proper inspection and to prevent this from affecting your health and property, please call our certified team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Don't risk making it worse.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 9:06 am