AC making noise and not cooling in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been making a loud rattling noise every time it kicks on, and it’s struggling to cool the living room down. It’s been getting worse over the last two weeks and my DEWA bill was noticeably higher last month. Is this something that needs a professional HVAC technician, and roughly how much should I expect to pay for a repair like this in Dubai?
Posted by Mary Scott
Asked on April 16, 2026 4:00 pm
0
That noise and poor cooling point to a potential compressor issue or a significant refrigerant leak, both of which are serious and require immediate professional attention. The higher DEWA bill confirms the system is working much harder to achieve little cooling, which is a classic symptom.

In Dubai's climate, with constant fine dust and high humidity, AC units are under immense strain. A rattling noise often indicates a loose or failing component in the outdoor unit's fan assembly or compressor, which can lead to a complete breakdown if ignored. The lack of cooling could stem from that mechanical issue, a clogged condenser coil coated in dust, or a refrigerant leak.

This is not a DIY fix. You need a certified HVAC technician to diagnose it. They will check electrical components, refrigerant levels, clean the condenser coils, and identify the source of the noise. For apartments, always check if your building management has a preferred vendor list, as they often handle external unit access.

Repair costs vary significantly based on the problem. A simple cleaning and minor repair will be at one end of the scale, while a compressor replacement or major refrigerant recharge will be a more substantial investment. Always request a detailed diagnostic report and a clear quote before authorizing any work.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 19, 2026 3:21 pm