Could the mold from my AC leak be making me sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold from your AC leak is very likely the cause of your morning sore throat and congestion. The constant moisture from the leak creates an ideal environment for mold growth, and the AC unit then blows these spores directly into your bedroom air throughout the night. In Dubai's climate, where we rely on AC year-round, this creates a continuous exposure that commonly leads to the symptoms you're describing.

For a small area on a painted wall, you can attempt to clean it yourself. First, ensure the AC is turned off at the circuit breaker to prevent further moisture and electrical hazard. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Mix a solution of one part white vinegar with four parts water. Lightly spray the area, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush to avoid damaging the paint. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and allow the area to dry completely. Do not use bleach, as it can discolour paint and only removes the surface colour, not the root structure.

However, this only addresses the visible growth on your wall. The critical part is the leak itself and the potential contamination inside the AC unit and ductwork, which you cannot see or clean yourself. Lingering moisture will cause the mold to return quickly. For a persistent leak and systemic issue like this, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to identify the source of the water intrusion, assess the full extent of the mold growth within the system, and perform a proper remediation that includes the air conditioning unit. This is the only way to fully resolve the problem and stop the recurring symptoms.