AC leak causing black mold: DIY or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my master bedroom has been leaking a bit onto the carpet in the corner, and now I’m seeing a few small black spots on the skirting board. It’s been like this for a couple of weeks since the humidity really kicked in. Is this something I can tackle myself with bleach spray, or do I need to call in a professional mold inspection company to check inside the AC unit and the wall?
Posted by Jessica Brown
Asked on April 3, 2026 9:16 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described—AC leakage, visible black spots on the skirting board, and a timeline coinciding with high humidity—this is a situation that warrants a professional mold inspection. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and constant AC use create a perfect environment for mold growth, what you see is often just the tip of the iceberg.

The primary concern is not the visible surface mold, but the potential colonization inside your AC unit's drip pan, ductwork, and, most critically, within the wall cavity. The leak has likely saturated the insulation and internal wall structure, creating a hidden reservoir of moisture that promotes extensive microbial growth. A DIY approach with bleach is strongly discouraged. Bleach is ineffective on porous materials like drywall and wood, as it only bleaches the surface mold without addressing the root colony. More importantly, it does not address the contamination within the AC system, which can then continuously spread spores throughout your living space, impacting indoor air quality.

Our standard inspection protocol involves using moisture meters to map the exact extent of water damage, borescopes to visually inspect inside wall cavities, and air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration of mold present. This is crucial as some species, like Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), can produce mycotoxins.

For a comprehensive assessment of the AC unit, the wall, and your indoor air quality, I recommend contacting our certified team at Saniservice. We are fully versed in Dubai Municipality regulations regarding indoor environmental quality. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 5:18 pm