Should I urgently call a pro for AC mold and scratchy throat?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom has been leaking a little bit onto the carpet for maybe a week, and now I'm seeing a few small black spots spreading out from the wall near the unit. I wiped it with bleach but the smell is still there and my throat has been feeling a bit scratchy in the mornings. Is this something I need to call a professional about urgently this week, or can it wait until my next day off?
Posted by Wolfgang Flores
Asked on April 24, 2026 8:00 am
Yes, you should call a professional this week. The combination of a confirmed water leak, visible black spots that returned after cleaning, a persistent musty smell, and a scratchy throat indicates a developing mold issue that needs assessment.

In Dubai's climate, AC leaks are a primary cause of indoor mold. The constant high humidity and condensation create an ideal environment for spores to colonize quickly, especially in porous materials like carpet and drywall. Bleach only removes surface discoloration on porous surfaces; it does not kill the root structure (hyphae) growing within, which is why the odor and irritation persist.

Your scratchy throat is a common reaction to inhaling mycotoxins and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) released by active colonies. While not everyone reacts, it is a clear sign your indoor air quality is compromised.

For a situation like this, a professional inspection is advised to determine the extent of the hidden moisture damage behind the wall and under the carpet. They will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to assess the damage. The remediation process will involve stopping the leak at its source, properly drying the affected structure, and then removing the contaminated materials. Simply wiping the surface will not resolve the problem.

Look for a provider that can offer verifiable evidence of cleanup, such as before-and-after lab air quality tests, to ensure the issue is properly resolved.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 25, 2026 2:56 am