Mold from AC leak causing illness; testing and cleaning cost?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom AC unit in our Marina apartment has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now we've all started waking up with stuffy noses and a wheezing cough, especially my youngest. I'm worried the leak has caused mold in the ducts triggering asthma. Has anyone had a similar issue and gotten professional mold testing and AC cleaning done, and what was the rough cost for a two-bedroom apartment?
Posted by Sarah Robinson
Asked on March 21, 2026 12:33 am
This is a classic scenario we see all the time in Dubai, especially in high-humidity areas like Marina. That persistent AC leak has almost certainly created an ideal environment for mold growth inside the ductwork and the AC unit's evaporator coil. The stuffy noses and wheezing, particularly in a child, are significant red flags for mold exposure triggering allergic rhinitis and exacerbating asthmatic symptoms.

The moisture from the leak, combined with our climate, allows mold spores (like Cladosporium or Aspergillus) to colonize. Every time the AC kicks on, it aerosolizes these spores and mycotoxins directly into your bedroom air, which you then inhale for hours while sleeping. This is a serious health concern that needs immediate professional attention, not just a simple AC clean.

For a proper resolution, you need a two-step professional approach:

1. Inspection & Testing: A certified mold inspector should conduct a visual assessment (often with a borescamera for ducts) and air quality testing. This is crucial to identify the species and concentration levels, which guides the remediation protocol. UAE regulations, particularly from Dubai Municipality, have strict guidelines on indoor air quality and remediation standards that we must adhere to.

2. Remediation & Cleaning: The leak MUST be fixed first. Then, a specialized hygienization process is required. This isn't a standard AC service; it involves using HEPA vacuums, antimicrobial agents, and sealing the ducts to properly decontaminate the system and prevent spores from spreading during cleaning.

For a two-bedroom apartment in Dubai, you're looking at a rough cost range. A basic AC cleaning might be AED 1,000-1,500, but for proper mold inspection, testing, and certified remediation of the AC system and affected areas, budgets typically start from AED 3,500 and can go up to AED 7,000+ depending on the extent of contamination. Don't risk your family's health with uncertified cleaners; this requires IICRC-certified technicians.

Given the symptoms you describe, I strongly recommend a professional assessment immediately. Call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a detailed inspection and quote. We can identify the source and provide a definitive solution to make your bedroom safe again.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 23, 2026 12:56 pm