Is musty smell near AC unit mold and who fixes it?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the area around the air conditioning unit in our living room. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed some discoloration on the walls near the window where the chiller is installed. Could this be mold, and whose responsibility is it to address?
Posted by Hui Dang
Asked on March 10, 2026 7:50 pm
The musty smell emanating from the area near your air conditioning unit could indeed be indicative of mold growth. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, humidity levels can vary, and after heavy rains or other moisture-related incidents, such as condensation build-up around AC units, the risk of mold increases significantly.

Mold can grow on various surfaces like walls, where you've observed discoloration near the window housing your chiller. The presence of dark spots or a musty odor are strong indicators that further inspection is warranted to determine if it's indeed mold and assess its extent. According to UAE regulations, specifically those outlined in the Building Code and Environmental Health Standards, property owners are responsible for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and addressing any visible signs of moisture damage.

It would be prudent to conduct a professional inspection by contacting a certified environmental testing company such as Saniservice. They can provide a comprehensive assessment using advanced tools like thermal imaging cameras to locate hidden moisture and mold growth. The inspection should also include an evaluation of the chiller unit, ensuring it's properly sealed and not contributing to moisture intrusion.

If mold is confirmed, remediation steps must be taken promptly to prevent further spread and potential health risks. This typically involves removing contaminated materials, cleaning with appropriate biocides, and addressing underlying moisture issues. Saniservice recommends using certified remediation professionals who adhere to guidelines such as those provided by the American Mold Remediation Association (AMRA).

In some cases, addressing mold might require replacing parts of the AC unit or even sealing gaps around windows to prevent future condensation. Remember, ignoring mold can lead to serious health issues and property damage.

Should you decide to take action, don't hesitate to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance tailored specifically for the Dubai area.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 12, 2026 4:54 pm