AC mold spreading after vinegar; DIY clean or call pro?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking a little for the past month, and now I’ve found black spots spreading on the back wall and some of my shoes. I wiped it with vinegar but it came back worse after a week. Is this something I can tackle myself with stronger stuff from the supermarket, or do I need to call a professional cleaning company?
Posted by Michiko Sun
Asked on April 19, 2026 9:40 pm
The recurring mold after a vinegar treatment indicates a persistent moisture source the cleaning didn't address. In Dubai's high humidity, surface cleaning alone is almost never a permanent solution for an active leak.

For a leak inside a closet, the issue is likely inside the AC unit's drip pan or drainage line, which continues to feed the wall cavity with moisture. The mold you see on the surface is often just a fraction of the growth within the wall or unit. Stronger supermarket biocides can temporarily bleach the visible spots but won't stop the root cause and can be hazardous to use in an enclosed space without proper protective equipment.

Given the spread to personal items and the wall, a professional assessment is strongly recommended. They will identify and repair the leak source first, then properly contain and remove the contaminated materials. For this type of hidden growth, verification with post-remediation testing is the only way to confirm the environment is truly restored. The Dubai climate means any unresolved moisture will cause regrowth quickly.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 20, 2026 3:25 pm