Is AC mold making me sick and how to fix?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the black growth in your AC unit is very likely causing your symptoms. The scratchy throat, watery eyes, headaches, and daily congestion are classic reactions to mold exposure, particularly from the air you're breathing all night. In Dubai's humid climate, AC units are a prime location for mold growth due to constant condensation inside the ducts and drain pans.

To get your landlord to act, start by documenting everything. Take clear, time-stamped photos and videos of the mold growth inside the unit. Detail your symptoms and their duration in a dated email or written notice. Under Dubai's rental regulations (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's essential services, which includes a functioning and healthy air conditioning system. Presenting this evidence formally often prompts a quicker response.

Do not attempt a DIY fix with bleach or store-bought sprays. This often spreads spores and doesn't address the root cause inside the ductwork. The fastest and most effective path is to insist on a professional mold remediation company. They will properly contain the area, clean the internal evaporator coils and drain pan, and treat the ducting to prevent regrowth. For a case this visible and with clear health impacts, a proper remediation is non-negotiable.

After remediation, request verification that the work was done to standard, which often includes before-and-after photos or documentation. To ensure it's truly resolved and for your own peace of mind, consider an independent post-remediation test to confirm spore counts have returned to normal levels.