How to fix my AC leaking water in Dubai apartment?« Back to Previous Page

My bedroom AC unit in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has started leaking water onto the floor again, just like it did last summer. It forms a small puddle by midday and it’s starting to warp the wooden skirting board. I’ve tried wiping it up but it keeps coming back. What are the specific steps involved in troubleshooting and permanently fixing this issue myself before I have to call a technician?
Posted by Susan Martin
Asked on March 25, 2026 4:40 pm
Based on the symptoms you're describing in your JVC apartment, this is a classic case of a clogged condensate drain line, extremely common here in Dubai due to our high humidity and dusty environment. Here’s a structured approach to troubleshooting.

First, safety: TURN OFF THE AC UNIT completely at the thermostat and the circuit breaker. The constant water leak poses a serious risk of electrical short circuits and mold growth behind your walls, which is a violation of Dubai Municipality's public health and safety codes for residential buildings.

The core issue is almost always a blocked drain pipe. Locate the white PVC drain pipe coming from your indoor unit. The trap might be clogged with black, sludge-like microbial growth. You can attempt to clear it by pouring a mixture of warm water and distilled white vinegar down the access point. Avoid harsh chemicals as they can damage the pipe and are an environmental hazard. If that doesn't work, a wet/dry vacuum can be used to suction the clog out from the end of the pipe, usually located on your balcony.

While you're at it, check the drain pan underneath the evaporator coils for cracks. A warped skirting board indicates this has been ongoing, and the constant moisture will have created a perfect environment for mold, which is a serious health concern. If you see any black speckling around the area, that's a major red flag.

Honestly, given that the leak is already damaging property, this is beyond a simple DIY fix. The internal insulation could be wet, and mold remediation might be necessary to protect your health and comply with UAE housing standards. I strongly recommend a professional inspection. We use specialized borescopes to check inside the wall units and air quality meters to check for spore counts.

Call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) for a proper diagnosis and permanent fix. We can hydro-jet the drain lines, repair or replace the pan, and conduct a mold check to ensure your apartment is safe.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 6:59 am