How to safely clean mold and stop AC leak?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past few weeks and I suspect it might be mold. I just pulled out the sofa in our living room and found a small patch of black mold on the wall behind it, probably from a hidden AC condensation leak. We live in a villa in Mirdif and I'm worried about their health and this spreading. What’s the safest way to clean this myself and how can I stop the AC from causing this again?
Posted by Rashmi Banerjee
Asked on April 10, 2026 12:34 pm
The situation you've described is a classic example of a hidden moisture issue common in Dubai villas, particularly in areas like Mirdif. The persistent cough in children is a significant health red flag, as their developing respiratory systems are highly susceptible to mold spores and mycotoxins. The visible black patch is likely just the fruiting body; the hyphae (root system) can penetrate deep into the drywall, making DIY cleaning a temporary and potentially hazardous solution.

For immediate safety, do not attempt to clean this with bleach. It will only bleach the color and release a high concentration of spores into your air, exacerbating the health issues. Isolate the area by closing the door and covering the opening with plastic sheeting if possible.

The root cause is the AC condensation leak, which is exacerbated by our extreme humidity and year-round cooling demands. You must have a certified HVAC technician inspect and repair the drain line, drain pan, or insulation issue causing the condensation. This is a critical step to prevent recurrence.

However, given the health symptoms and the porous nature of the wall material (likely gypsum board), a professional assessment is strongly advised. DIY methods cannot assess the extent of contamination within the wall cavity or the airborne spore count affecting your family's health. Our certified mold inspectors use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air sampling to determine the full scope, in line with Dubai Municipality's indoor environmental standards.

For a definitive solution that protects your family's health and your property, I recommend a professional inspection and remediation. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Our team can safely contain the area, remove the contaminated materials using HEPA filtration, and apply professional-grade antimicrobial solutions to ensure the problem is resolved at its source.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 12, 2026 11:29 am