Could AC mold be causing my sore throat?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a bit for the last couple of months, and now I keep waking up with a stuffy nose and a sore throat that goes away after I leave for work. I just pulled the vent cover off and the inside of the duct looks dark and fuzzy. Could this be causing my symptoms and what should I do about the mold in the AC unit?
Posted by Brian Moore
Asked on March 26, 2026 9:40 pm
Yes, absolutely. The symptoms you're describing – the persistent sore throat and stuffy nose that clear up when you leave the environment – are classic indicators of exposure to microbial contaminants, very likely mold, originating from your AC system. The visual confirmation of a dark, fuzzy substance inside the ductwork strongly supports this diagnosis.

In the UAE's climate, AC units are a prime breeding ground for mold. The constant condensation created by cooling our humid air provides the perfect moisture source. If a drain line is slightly clogged or the drip pan is leaking (as you've noted), it creates a chronic damp environment. Combined with the dark interior of ducts and the dust that acts as a food source, it's an ideal incubator for mold spores.

When the AC kicks on, it aerosolizes these spores and mycotoxins, blowing them directly into your bedroom where you're breathing them in for hours while you sleep. This constant irritation to your respiratory tract causes the inflammation you're experiencing as a sore throat and nasal congestion.

This is a serious concern that requires immediate action. Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold colony without proper containment and HEPA filtration will only spread the contamination throughout your home. UAE regulations, particularly from the Dubai Municipality, have strict guidelines for indoor air quality and remediation to protect occupant health.

You need a professional inspection and assessment. A certified mold inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration levels, which is crucial for determining the correct remediation protocol. Based on your description, a full hygienization of your AC system and ductwork is almost certainly necessary.

Please call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. We can identify the root cause of the leak, assess the full extent of the contamination, and provide a safe, certified remediation solution to restore your indoor air quality and health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 9:54 am