AC leak causing black mold and sickness in UAE?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now I'm finding black spots along the base of the wall behind the bed. My husband and I have both had a constant stuffy nose and headaches for weeks and I'm starting to worry it's connected. What's the best way to get this tested and properly cleaned by professionals who know about UAE buildings?
Posted by Sungjin Yang
Asked on April 10, 2026 2:55 am
The black spots are very likely mold, and your symptoms are a common reaction. UAE's high humidity and constant AC use create perfect conditions for mold when a leak provides moisture. The wall cavity behind the baseboard is probably affected, which requires professional assessment.

Stop using that AC unit immediately to prevent further moisture spread. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper methods can aerosolize spores and worsen contamination. You need a two-step professional process: inspection and remediation.

First, a certified inspector should conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and the full extent of the growth, which is often far greater than what's visible. This is critical for planning the cleanup. In Dubai, look for providers who use an independent microbiology lab for analysis, as this removes conflict of interest.

Remediation involves isolating the area, removing the contaminated drywall and insulation, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. The AC unit and ductwork must be inspected and cleaned to prevent immediate recontamination. Proper remediation verifies success with post-clearance testing to ensure spore counts have returned to safe, ambient levels. For health-related cases like yours, this post-remediation verification is non-negotiable.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 11, 2026 7:32 pm