How to treat mold in AC after fixing leak?« Back to Previous Page

Our AC unit in our Jumeirah Park villa has been leaking a bit of water into the closet where it’s installed, and now I’m seeing these black speckles on the wall behind it and a really damp, earthy smell every time the AC kicks on. I had maintenance fix the leak last week, but I’m worried the mold is already inside the system or the wall. What’s the best way to completely clean and treat this area to make sure it doesn’t come back and spread through the ducts?
Posted by Jessica Davis
Asked on March 29, 2026 2:45 pm
Based on your description of the black speckles and the persistent earthy smell from your AC unit in Jumeirah Park, it is highly likely that microbial growth has already established itself within the system and the surrounding building materials. Simply fixing the water leak is the first step, but it is not a remediation solution. The constant humidity and condensation inherent to Dubai's climate create a perfect environment for mold to thrive, especially inside AC systems which are a primary vector for spreading spores throughout a property.

The situation you describe requires a professional, multi-step remediation process. The wall cavity behind the unit must be inspected with a borescope to assess the extent of the damage within the wall. The AC unit itself, particularly the evaporator coils, drip pan, and internal ductwork, needs to be disinfected using EPA-approved, non-toxic biocides applied via fogging or spraying to eradicate the growth at its source. All contaminated porous materials, like the damaged drywall and insulation, must be safely removed and disposed of. Finally, the area should be HEPA-vacuumed and treated with a preventative antimicrobial coating to inhibit future growth.

Given the health risks associated with "black mold" (often Stachybotrys chartarum) and the complexity of ensuring it is entirely removed from the HVAC system, a DIY approach is strongly discouraged. Improper cleaning can aerosolize toxins and spread the contamination further.

For a complete and guaranteed solution, I recommend you contact our certified specialists at Saniservice for a comprehensive inspection and remediation plan. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the species, contain the area to prevent cross-contamination, and use industrial-grade equipment to restore your villa to a safe, healthy condition.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 6:14 am