Is my AC causing a serious mold problem?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment seems to be running non-stop and the air still feels heavy and damp, especially in the bedrooms at night. I’ve started seeing small black spots in the corner of my walk-in closet where I store my clothes and suitcases. Is this a serious mold issue I need to get a professional to handle urgently, or is this normal for Dubai in August and something a dehumidifier can fix?
Posted by Jiyeon Hu
Asked on March 11, 2026 4:59 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described, it is highly probable that you are dealing with a developing mold issue, and your AC system is likely a significant contributing factor, not the solution. This is a very common scenario in Dubai, especially during the peak summer months like August when the external absolute humidity is extremely high.

The constant AC runtime suggests the unit is struggling to manage the latent load (moisture removal) and is likely only addressing the sensible load (temperature). An oversized unit, a dirty evaporator coil, or a malfunctioning drain pan can cause the AC to cool the air without adequately dehumidifying it, resulting in that "heavy and damp" feel. This creates the perfect breeding ground for mold, as the relative humidity inside remains above the critical 60% threshold.

The black spots in your closet are a major red flag. This indicates localized condensation and active mold growth, which can spread to your belongings and pose health risks. This is not "normal" and should not be ignored.

While a standalone dehumidifier can assist, it is a temporary mitigation. The root cause must be professionally diagnosed. We would need to conduct a comprehensive inspection, including thermal imaging to find condensation points and moisture meters to assess the wall's moisture content. This will determine if the issue is with the AC unit itself, insufficient insulation (common in exterior closet walls), or another building envelope defect.

I strongly recommend you cease using that closet and arrange for a professional assessment immediately to prevent further spread and potential health effects. Please call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a thorough evaluation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 13, 2026 7:02 pm