Black mold from AC: clean myself or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking a little bit for a while, and I just pulled out some winter clothes to find a bunch of black mold spots on a few jackets and the wall behind them. We've lived here for 2 years in Downtown Dubai and this is the first time we've seen this. Is this something I can clean myself with bleach, or given it's from the AC unit, do I need to call a professional company for an inspection and what would that likely cost?
Posted by Daniel Thompson
Asked on March 26, 2026 3:55 am
Based on the details you've provided, this is a situation that warrants a professional inspection and remediation, not a DIY bleach cleanup. The presence of black mold on both belongings and the wall, coupled with a confirmed AC leak, indicates a persistent moisture issue that has created an established colony.

Bleach is a surface-level disinfectant and is ineffective on porous materials like drywall and fabric. It does not address the root moisture problem and can often aggravate the situation by adding moisture. More critically, disturbing the mold by cleaning attempts can aerosolize spores, potentially spreading the contamination to other areas of your bedroom and significantly increasing your exposure risk, which is a health concern.

In Dubai's high-humidity climate, AC units are a primary source of condensation and a common catalyst for mold growth if not properly maintained. The leak in your closet unit has created the perfect damp, dark environment for mold to thrive. A professional assessment is crucial to determine the full extent of the infestation, identify the precise cause of the AC leak, and safely execute a remediation protocol that includes containment, air filtration, removal of contaminated materials, and antimicrobial treatment.

For a situation like this in Downtown Dubai, a comprehensive inspection and remediation plan from a certified provider like Saniservice typically starts from AED 1,500, but this can vary based on the severity. Given the health risks and potential for property damage, we strongly recommend you cease use of the AC unit, avoid the affected area, and contact our specialists for a definitive assessment. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 8:49 pm