AC mold causing child's illness: DIY clean or call pro?« Back to Previous Page

Our AC unit in the kids' bedroom in our Jumeirah villa has been leaking a bit for the last few weeks, and now I've spotted a patch of black, fuzzy mold growing on the wall behind the curtain. My youngest has been having a runny nose and a weird cough that won't go away, and I'm starting to panic. What's the safest way to clean this ourselves without risking our health, or should we just call a professional company in Dubai immediately?
Posted by Francesco Janssen
Asked on May 20, 2026 7:01 pm
Given the child's symptoms and the visible leak, professional remediation is strongly advised. Black discoloration often indicates Stachybotrys or other toxigenic species, which can release mycotoxins into the air during improper cleaning. Disturbing it yourself risks spreading spores throughout the room, potentially worsening respiratory issues.

In Dubai's climate, the constant AC use creates ideal conditions for this mold to thrive on damp drywall. The leak must be repaired first; otherwise, the mold will return quickly. A certified inspector can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and the full extent of the contamination, which is often wider than what's visibly apparent.

For a small, surface-level patch on a non-porous material, a DIY approach with proper PPE (N95 mask, gloves, goggles) and a hydrogen peroxide-based solution can be considered. However, on porous surfaces like drywall or insulation, the material typically requires cutting out and replacement, which is a job for professionals with containment protocols.

Given the health symptoms present, the safest course is to call a Dubai-based company with certified mold remediators and a microbiology lab for testing. They can ensure the leak is fixed, the contaminated materials are safely removed, and the air is cleared before the room is occupied again.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 21, 2026 8:22 am