Can AC mold cause sinus issues and how to clean?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in our master bedroom in Jumeirah Park has been leaking a bit of water for the last couple of months, and now there's a patch of black mold on the wall behind the vent. My husband has been waking up with a stuffy nose and a sore throat for weeks, and it's getting worse. Could this mold from the AC leak be causing his sinus issues and what's the proper way to get it cleaned safely?
Posted by Steven Davis
Asked on May 4, 2026 4:00 am
0
Yes, the mold from your AC leak is very likely causing his sinus issues. The constant moisture from the leak creates an ideal environment for mold growth, and the AC unit then blows those spores directly into the bedroom air. In Dubai's climate, where we run AC constantly and humidity is high, this is a common pathway for indoor air quality problems. The symptoms you describe—chronic stuffy nose and sore throat upon waking—are classic signs of exposure to mold and its microbial byproducts.

For a situation this advanced, with visible mold on the wall, a professional remediation is strongly advised. The proper cleaning process is critical to avoid spreading spores. It involves containment of the area, removal of the contaminated porous material (the affected part of the wall), HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment of the remaining surfaces. Simply wiping it can aerosolize the problem.

The root cause—the AC leak—must also be fixed. This is often a blocked condensate drain line, a common issue here due to dust accumulation. A full AC service to clear the drain, check the insulation, and ensure proper operation is essential to prevent it from happening again immediately.

Given the health symptoms, consider a professional inspection to assess the full extent. They can identify the mold type and ensure the cleanup protocol is appropriate. For any company you contact, ask how they will verify the space is safe again, typically through post-remediation testing.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 5, 2026 4:23 am