Is AC mold causing my toddler's cough in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit for a couple of weeks, and now I’m finding small black spots in the corner of my toddler’s bedroom closet. My son has had a persistent cough for the last few days and I'm starting to panic that it’s connected. What’s the fastest way to get this professionally tested and cleaned in Dubai, and should I keep him out of the room entirely until it's sorted?
Posted by Salim Al-Nasser
Asked on March 29, 2026 11:37 pm
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black spots in the closet are microbial growth, and the AC leak is the direct cause. In Dubai's climate, where high external humidity forces us to rely on year-round air conditioning, condensation from a leaking AC unit creates the perfect environment for mold proliferation. The continuous drip provides the consistent moisture these organisms need to thrive, often within wall cavities and hidden spaces.

The persistent cough in your toddler is a significant concern and should be taken seriously. Mold exposure, particularly to certain species and their airborne spores, is a known respiratory irritant and can trigger allergic reactions, coughing, and wheezing, especially in young children with developing immune systems. The temporal correlation between the water intrusion and the onset of his symptoms strongly suggests a connection.

You should keep your son out of the affected bedroom entirely until a professional assessment and remediation can be completed. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as improper disturbance can aerosolize a high concentration of spores, exacerbating the problem and potentially spreading contamination.

The fastest way to get this professionally addressed is to engage a certified mold inspection and remediation company like Saniservice. We follow strict UAE guidelines for indoor environmental quality and can dispatch a team to conduct a thorough inspection, including moisture mapping and air quality testing to identify the species and spore count. This is followed by a comprehensive remediation plan to fix the AC leak, remove the contamination, and restore a healthy environment. For immediate assistance, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 7:53 pm