Urgent: AC causing mold smell in closet, call maintenance now?« Back to Previous Page

My bedroom closet has started giving off a really strong, damp mold smell over the last few days, especially after the AC kicks on. It's gotten so bad that my clothes are starting to absorb it and I'm worried about our health. Is this something I need to call maintenance for immediately, or can it wait until next week?
Posted by Margaret Wright
Asked on April 28, 2026 3:00 pm
0
Yes, call maintenance immediately. A sudden, strong mold smell indicates active microbial growth, and in Dubai's climate, this can escalate quickly due to high humidity and constant AC operation. The smell permeating your clothes confirms the spores are airborne and settling.

The issue is likely a clogged condensate drain line from your AC unit. When this line blocks, stagnant water backs up and leaks, often into adjacent walls or voids like a closet, creating the perfect damp environment for mold. This is a very common issue here. Do not wait; the problem will not resolve itself and poses a health risk, particularly for anyone with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

While waiting for maintenance, move your clothes to a different room to prevent further contamination. Keep the closet door closed to contain the odor. Maintenance should inspect the condensate drain pan and line for blockages, check for any water leakage in the wall cavity, and ensure the AC's drainage is functioning properly. Simply cleaning the visible closet surfaces won't address the root cause.

If the smell persists after maintenance clears the drain, a professional indoor environmental assessment may be needed to identify any hidden mold growth within the wall that requires remediation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 29, 2026 5:35 pm