Can I fix AC leak mold myself or call a pro?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our Jumeirah apartment has been leaking a bit onto the carpet in the corner of the living room, and now I’m seeing a small black spot that won’t come out with vinegar. It’s been slowly growing for about a month since the leak started. I’m worried it’s gotten into the walls or under the carpet, but I’m not sure if this is a big enough job to call a professional for or if I can tackle it myself with a stronger cleaner from Ace Hardware. Is this something I can handle on my own?
Posted by Antonio Romano
Asked on April 1, 2026 2:32 pm
Based on your description, this is not a DIY job. The black spot you see is the fruiting body of the mold colony; the main network of hyphae (roots) is likely growing deep into the carpet backing, underlay, and potentially into the wall cavity and subfloor. Vinegar is a superficial disinfectant and cannot penetrate these materials to address the root infestation.

In Dubai's climate, the constant high humidity and year-round AC use create a perfect environment for rapid mold proliferation. An AC leak provides a continuous moisture source, turning a building material into a nutrient-rich breeding ground. Attempting to clean it with stronger chemicals from a hardware store will only temporarily bleach the visible growth and release a high concentration of harmful spores into your apartment's air, posing a health risk. Furthermore, improper handling can violate Dubai Municipality's public health regulations concerning indoor air quality and fungal contamination.

A professional inspection is critical. We use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to determine the exact extent of the water damage and mold growth hidden behind walls and under floors. The remediation process requires industrial-grade HEPA air scrubbers to contain the spores, followed by the safe removal and disposal of contaminated porous materials like carpet and underlay. The underlying concrete slab must then be professionally cleaned and sealed.

For a thorough assessment and compliant remediation, I strongly recommend you call our certified team at Saniservice. Please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Addressing the leak and the mold correctly now will prevent a much larger and more expensive problem down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 3, 2026 2:01 pm