How to clean closet mold and fix leaking AC?« Back to Previous Page
|
The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking a little, and now I've spotted black spots on the back wall of the wardrobe where my clothes are. It's been so humid lately and I'm worried it's mold. What's the best way to clean this properly and who should I call to fix the AC unit so it stops happening?
|
|
The black spots you're describing are a classic indicator of mold growth, specifically caused by the combination of a water intrusion from the AC leak and Dubai's high ambient humidity, which provides the perfect environment for spores to proliferate. This is a very common issue in the region due to our climate.
For the immediate mold on the wall inside the wardrobe, do not attempt to clean it with bleach. This can worsen the situation by adding moisture and only bleaches the surface pigment without killing the root structure. For a small, contained area, you can carefully wipe the surface with a rag dampened with a diluted detergent solution or a specialized EPA-approved mold cleaner, ensuring you wear an N95 mask and gloves. However, this is only a superficial fix. The porous nature of drywall or plaster means the mold mycelium can penetrate deeply, requiring professional remediation to remove the contaminated section entirely. The root cause is the leaking AC unit. This is not a simple DIY fix. The leak could be due to a clogged condensate drain line, a damaged drain pan, or low refrigerant levels causing the evaporator coil to freeze and thaw. You must call a certified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the specific issue. They will need to unclog the drain line, ensure the condensate pump is working (if applicable), and verify the system's integrity. Given the presence of active moisture and visible growth, I strongly recommend a professional mold inspection. Our certified inspectors at Saniservice can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration, assess the full extent of the contamination behind the wall, and provide a protocol for safe, effective remediation to protect your health and property. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: