Found hidden mold from AC leak; DIY or call pro?« Back to Previous Page
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The AC in our master bedroom has been leaking a little bit onto the carpet for maybe a month, but we just moved the nightstand and found a huge patch of black and green mold spreading up the wall behind it. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed it. What’s the best way to handle this ourselves, or should we call a professional cleaning service here in Dubai right away?
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Call a professional inspection service immediately. This is not a DIY situation. The visible mold on the wall is a major indicator, but the leak has been ongoing for a month, meaning there is a high probability of significant hidden mold growth inside the wall cavity, under the carpet, and potentially within the AC unit itself. The combination of constant moisture from the leak and Dubai's high ambient humidity creates an ideal environment for rapid, deep colonization.
For a confirmed leak of this duration, a professional assessment is critical. They will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to map the full extent of water damage behind the wall. Surface cleaning alone is ineffective and can aerosolize spores, spreading the problem. Remediation involves controlled containment of the area, safe removal of contaminated porous materials like drywall and carpet padding, and HEPA vacuuming before any cleaning or disinfection occurs. The root cause—the AC leak—must also be diagnosed and repaired by an HVAC technician to prevent immediate recurrence. While awaiting the pros, minimize air circulation from the room to other parts of the home and avoid disturbing the mold. A proper inspection by a company with its own microbiology lab can also identify the species, which is important for understanding any potential health risks and verifying the remediation's success through post-clearance testing. |
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