How to clean AC mold to prevent asthma flare-ups?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed black speckles around the edges of our bedroom AC vent. My son’s asthma has been much worse this winter, and I’m worried the mold from the AC unit is the trigger. The room is in our villa in Jumeirah and the AC runs almost constantly. What’s the best way to properly clean the AC unit and the ducts to prevent the mold from coming back and aggravating his asthma?
Posted by Lina Farah
Asked on March 11, 2026 1:28 am
Good question, and a very common issue here in Dubai, especially in older villas in areas like Jumeirah. The black speckles you're seeing are almost certainly mold growth, and it's a very potent trigger for asthma flare-ups, especially in children. The constant running of the AC creates a cycle of condensation and drying inside the unit and ducts, which is the perfect breeding ground for mold if not maintained properly.

The absolute first step is to stop the exposure. I strongly recommend you call a professional for a proper inspection and remediation. Disturbing that mold yourself by cleaning can aerosolize a massive amount of spores into the room, potentially causing a severe asthma attack for your son. We use specialized HEPA-contained equipment to clean ductwork and treat the evaporator coils with EPA-approved, non-toxic biocides that prevent regrowth—something you can't get off the shelf.

For a lasting solution, the cleaning must be followed by addressing the root cause: excess moisture. This means checking the drain pan and drain line for clogs, ensuring the unit's insulation is intact, and verifying the refrigerant charge is correct to prevent the coil from over-freezing and then thawing.

In the UAE, companies performing this work should adhere to standards like the NADCA ACR and local civil defense regulations for safe practices. DIY attempts often just spread the problem.

Given your son's health, please get a professional assessment. You can call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive inspection. We can identify the specific mold type and create a remediation plan to make his bedroom a safe environment again.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 12, 2026 3:46 am