How to permanently fix AC mold in humid Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our master bedroom in our Jumeirah villa has been leaking a bit, and now we’ve found black spots of mold on the back of the wardrobe that’s against the wall. We had a company come for a one-off cleanup last year, but it’s clearly come back. What’s the most effective way to treat this for good and prevent it from returning, especially with our humid summers?
Posted by Seung Vu
Asked on May 9, 2026 9:36 pm
The leak is the root cause. In Dubai's climate, any moisture from an AC leak creates a constant source of humidity, allowing mold to thrive and return even after surface cleaning. A permanent fix requires addressing both the moisture source and the contaminated materials.

First, a qualified HVAC technician must repair the AC leak and ensure the unit is draining correctly. For the mold itself, porous materials like the back of a wardrobe are often not salvageable. The affected section likely needs to be cut out and replaced. Surface cleaning with detergent is a temporary measure for non-porous surfaces only.

To prevent recurrence, the repaired AC must maintain a dry environment. Ensure the unit is correctly sized for the room and runs consistently to control humidity. Using a standalone dehumidifier in the bedroom, especially during the more humid summer months, can help maintain levels below 60% RH, making it difficult for mold to regrow.

For a recurring issue like this, a professional inspection is advised to assess the full extent, as mold can spread inside wall cavities from a persistent leak. Companies with their own microbiology labs can provide identification and post-remediation verification testing to confirm the environment is dry and the mold has been properly addressed, which is the only way to guarantee a permanent solution.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 12, 2026 4:21 am