Is mold from AC leak a DIY fix or need professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah seems to be leaking a bit of water onto the carpet below, and now I’m finding black spots along the base of the wall. I tried wiping it with vinegar, but it came back after a few days with this really damp, earthy smell. Is this something I can tackle myself with stronger cleaning products, or do I need to call in a professional mold remediation company here in Dubai?
Posted by Lakshmi Iyengar
Asked on April 3, 2026 2:27 pm
Based on your description of recurring black spots and a persistent damp, earthy smell following an AC leak in Jumeirah, this is almost certainly an active mold colony that requires professional attention, not a DIY solution.

The issue is not just surface-level. The leak has saturated the carpet and likely the underlying padding and wall base, creating a perfect habitat for mold growth deep within the materials. Vinegar or stronger cleaning agents only address the visible surface, leaving the root system intact to regrow. In Dubai's high humidity, this regrowth is rapid.

Attempting to clean it yourself risks cross-contaminating other areas of your apartment and exposing yourself to a high concentration of mold spores, which can cause significant health issues. Furthermore, proper remediation in the UAE requires specialized equipment like HEPA air scrubbers to contain the spores and industrial-grade dehumidifiers to achieve the necessary dryness to prevent recurrence, which is not feasible with consumer products.

For a situation involving HVAC systems, wall cavities, and carpets, a professional inspection and remediation are strongly advised. Saniservice's certified technicians are trained in Dubai's specific climate challenges and follow strict protocols for containment, removal, and post-remediation verification to ensure your apartment is safe and truly mold-free. I recommend you call them for a comprehensive assessment at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 4:57 am