How to remove black mold from AC wall« Back to Previous Page
|
We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a bunch of black spots spreading on the wall behind our wardrobe in the master bedroom. I'm guessing it's from the AC unit, as that wall is always cold. What's the best way to get rid of this properly and who should I call, a regular cleaner or a specialized company?
|
|
The black spots behind your wardrobe are a classic sign of condensation-induced mold growth, extremely common in Dubai due to the constant AC use creating a cold surface on a humid wall. The wall stays cold, and airborne moisture condenses on it, creating the perfect damp environment for mold to feed on dust and paint.
For a small area (less than one square meter), you can clean it yourself with a diluted vinegar or hydrogen peroxide solution. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. However, simply wiping the surface is a temporary fix if the moisture source isn't addressed. The wall cavity behind may also be affected. Given its location behind furniture and the likelihood of hidden growth, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. A specialized indoor environmental company, not a regular cleaner, can use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the wall's internal condition. They will identify if the AC's condensate drain line is blocked or if insufficient insulation is the root cause. The proper remediation process involves isolating the area, removing the contaminated material (e.g., cutting out and replacing the affected drywall section), HEPA vacuuming, and applying antimicrobial solutions. Always request a post-remediation verification test to confirm the spore count in the area has returned to normal background levels; this is the only way to verify the job was done correctly. For this level of confirmation, you need a company with its own microbiology lab or one that partners with an accredited lab to provide documented results. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: