How to safely clean mold and check AC ducts?« Back to Previous Page

Stop using that AC unit immediately and keep children away from the area. The black mold behind your couch is a significant health concern, especially with the symptoms you describe, and its proximity to the AC intake means spores are very likely circulating.

For cleanup, small patches under 1 square meter can sometimes be handled by scrubbing with a microfiber cloth and a solution of detergent and warm water. However, given the size you describe and its location near the AC, this is a job for professionals. Attempting to clean it yourself risks aerosolizing a high volume of spores throughout your home. In Dubai's climate, the root cause is almost always excess moisture from humidity or condensation, often from an AC leak or a cold spot in the wall. A proper remediation will first identify and fix that moisture source.

You must have your AC ductwork professionally inspected and cleaned. The spores have almost certainly been drawn into the system. Look for a provider that uses video scoping to show you the contamination inside the ducts and can provide before-and-after testing to verify the cleanup's effectiveness, not just a visual inspection. This is a standard we adhere to with our own microbiology lab for verification.

The Dubai Municipality has clear guidelines for indoor air quality, and a reputable company will be able to align its work with those standards. Until professionals assess and remediate, focus on increasing ventilation in other parts of the house by opening windows when outdoor humidity is lower.