How to permanently fix AC leak and treat closet mold?« Back to Previous Page

The black spots and damp smell point to active mold growth, almost certainly from excess moisture. In Dubai's climate, this is frequently caused by a blocked or disconnected AC condensate drain line leaking into the partition wall. The wall itself is likely acting as a wick, drawing moisture into your closet.

First, address the water source. You must locate and repair the AC leak to stop the moisture supply. This typically involves a technician clearing the clogged drain line with a vacuum or pressure flush and ensuring the pipe is properly reconnected and draining. For a permanent fix, they may recommend installing an external drain pan or a condensate pump if the drain line has a problematic slope.

Simply cleaning the visible mold is not enough. The porous drywall and insulation behind it are probably saturated with mold colonies. For a proper remediation, the affected section of the wall must be opened, all contaminated porous materials (drywall, insulation) removed, and the underlying structure cleaned and treated with an antimicrobial solution. Only then should new, mold-resistant drywall be installed.

Given the extent you've described and the likelihood of hidden damage inside the wall cavity, a professional inspection is strongly advised. They use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the damage behind the surface and can ensure the remediation follows Dubai Municipality guidelines for containment and removal, preventing cross-contamination. After remediation, maintaining indoor humidity below 60% with proper AC operation and potentially using a dehumidifier in the room will help prevent it from returning.