Is AC mold causing our illness in Dubai apartment?« 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've spotted this black, fuzzy patch on the wall behind the unit. My husband and I have both had a constant stuffy nose and sore throats that just won't shift. Could this mold be the reason we're feeling so unwell, and what's the fastest way to deal with it properly here?
Posted by Agnieszka Schmidt
Asked on April 16, 2026 3:10 pm
A persistent water leak with visible black mold growth is very likely the source of your respiratory symptoms. The constant humidity from the leak creates an ideal breeding ground for mold, and the spores it releases into your indoor air are a common irritant, causing the exact sinus congestion and sore throats you describe.

In Dubai's climate, where we run ACs year-round, any internal moisture problem can escalate quickly. The first and most critical step is to stop the leak at its source; you will need an AC technician to repair the unit immediately. Simply cleaning the visible patch is not enough, as the moisture will cause it to return.

For a situation with active water damage and health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can assess the full extent of the growth, which often spreads behind walls. Remediation involves containing the area, safely removing the contaminated materials, and using HEPA filtration to clear the air of spores. Once the source is repaired and the mold is properly removed, your symptoms should subside. Look for providers who can offer post-remediation verification testing to confirm the environment has returned to a normal, healthy state.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 18, 2026 6:56 am