Is our AC mold causing morning sore throats?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mould from your leaking AC unit is very likely the cause of your morning sore throats and congestion. The symptoms you described—that clear up after you leave the apartment—are classic signs of exposure to mould spores and poor indoor air quality, particularly during sleep when you're breathing the air for hours.

In Dubai's climate, AC units are a primary source of condensation and moisture, which is a perfect breeding ground for mould. A small leak over a couple of months provides consistent dampness, allowing colonies to establish and release spores into your bedroom air. The black speckles behind the curtain are a visible confirmation of the problem.

The first step is to stop the moisture source. Have a certified HVAC technician repair the AC leak immediately. Do not attempt to clean the visible mould yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize the spores and worsen the problem. Disturbing it without proper containment can spread the contamination throughout your apartment.

For a situation that has persisted this long and is causing health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can assess the full extent of the growth, which is often more widespread than what is visible, especially inside the AC unit and surrounding walls. A proper remediation plan based on lab analysis of the mould type is the most effective way to resolve the issue and ensure your indoor air is safe to breathe again.