AC Leak Causing Mold and Sickness: DIY or Professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our bedroom in Silicon Oasis has been leaking a bit for a couple of weeks, and now I’m seeing these small black spots starting to form on the wall behind the curtain. My throat has been feeling scratchy in the mornings, and I’m worried it’s connected. Is this something I can clean myself with bleach spray, or do I need to call one of those professional mold remediation companies?
Posted by Mary Scott
Asked on April 1, 2026 1:25 pm
Based on your description, this is a classic and serious case of secondary mold growth caused by a chronic AC condensate leak, a very common issue in Dubai's climate. The black spots are almost certainly active microbial growth, and your scratchy throat is a typical symptom of exposure to mold spores and mycotoxins, which are particularly concentrated in bedroom environments where you spend hours breathing the air.

Attempting a DIY clean with bleach is strongly discouraged. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall, as it only bleaches the surface mold without killing the roots. It can also agitate the colony, releasing a larger cloud of spores into your air, potentially worsening your symptoms. Furthermore, the underlying moisture problem from the leaking AC unit has not been addressed, guaranteeing the mold will return.

The UAE's high humidity and year-round AC use create a perfect environment for such issues. The leak indicates a problem with the condensate drain line, pump, or insulation, which must be repaired by an HVAC technician to prevent recurrence. The mold contamination, however, requires professional remediation. We follow strict IICRC S520 protocols for containment, air filtration (using HEPA scrubbers), removal of contaminated porous materials (like that section of drywall), and antimicrobial application to ensure the problem is solved at its source.

For your health and to prevent structural damage, I recommend an immediate professional inspection. Our certified team at Saniservice can identify the exact species of mold and the full extent of the contamination, which is often hidden within wall cavities. Please do not disturb the area. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment and a safe, permanent solution.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 3, 2026 5:56 pm