Is my AC mold causing my morning congestion?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, it is very likely the mold growth from your AC leak is causing your morning congestion and itchy throat. The constant moisture from a leaking unit, combined with Dubai's high humidity, creates an ideal environment for mold. The spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) released by active colonies are common irritants, especially in an enclosed space like a bedroom where you're exposed for hours while sleeping.

The black and green fuzzy growth you found is a clear sign of an active infestation that has moved beyond the unit into your building materials. Disturbing it by pulling back the carpet can have temporarily increased the spore count in the air, exacerbating your symptoms.

For a situation like this, a simple cleaning won't suffice. The leak must be repaired first to stop the moisture source. The affected skirting board is likely porous and cannot be adequately cleaned; it will need to be removed and replaced. A professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the full extent of the hidden growth, often found inside the wall cavity or under the flooring. In Dubai, remediation companies should follow standards like the IICRC S520 for mold removal to ensure it is handled safely and effectively.

To manage your symptoms immediately, improve ventilation in the room when you are awake, and consider using a high-quality air purifier with a true HEPA filter. However, these are temporary measures until the source is professionally addressed.