Mold from AC leak causing our cough and headaches?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit for a couple of months, and now I’m seeing black spots spreading on the wall behind the bedroom wardrobe. My wife and I have both had a persistent dry cough and headaches for the last few weeks that just won’t go away. Is this kind of mold in Dubai known to cause these symptoms, and should we get an air quality test done or just call a professional cleaner straight away?
Posted by Mohammed Al-Qasim
Asked on April 21, 2026 9:30 pm
Yes, it is very likely that the mold from your AC leak is causing your cough and headaches. The black spots spreading on the wall are a clear indicator of a moisture problem, and the persistent nature of your symptoms aligns with common reactions to mold exposure, particularly in a closed, air-conditioned environment like a bedroom.

In Dubai's climate, AC units are constantly battling high humidity, leading to significant condensation. A persistent leak creates the perfect damp environment for mold to thrive indoors, often hidden behind furniture or within walls. The most common types found in such scenarios, like Cladosporium or Aspergillus, are known irritants that can cause exactly the respiratory issues you're describing.

You should not just call a cleaner. A professional mold inspection is the necessary first step. A thorough inspection will identify the full extent of the hidden growth behind the wardrobe and wall, which is almost certainly more widespread than the visible spots. Crucially, air and surface sampling sent to an accredited microbiology lab will identify the specific mold species present. This diagnosis is vital, as it confirms the source of your symptoms and dictates the correct remediation protocol, ensuring the problem is properly solved rather than just superficially cleaned.

Remediation must address the root cause: the AC leak must be repaired by a certified HVAC technician to prevent immediate recurrence. Only then should the contaminated materials be professionally removed and the area treated. Your health symptoms are a significant red flag; addressing the underlying mold issue is the primary way to resolve them.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 23, 2026 10:15 am