Home Maintenance Checklist for Dubai

Inspect and clean AC air filter

Wash or replace — clogged filters reduce cooling by 15%.

Check evaporator coil for dirt/ice

Visible dust or ice buildup means coil cleaning needed.

Inspect condensate drain tray & line

Pour water through — should drain freely, no backup.

Check refrigerant pressure (manifold gauge)

Low pressure = leak. Don't just top-up gas — find the leak.

Inspect outdoor unit for debris & dust

Clear leaves, sand, and obstructions. Coil fins should be straight.

Listen for unusual sounds

Humming, rattling, or grinding = capacitor, motor, or bearing issue.

Verify thermostat calibration

Set to 24°C — room temperature should match within 1°C.

Check suction line insulation

Cracked or missing insulation causes condensation and water damage.

Test AC trips RCCB / MCB

If breaker trips, isolate which AC. Could be capacitor or compressor.

Note cooling performance

Should reach set temperature within 30 minutes. If not, diagnose.

Check distribution board for warm breakers

Warm breakers = overloaded circuit. Should be cool to touch.

Test RCCB trip button

Press test button — RCCB should trip immediately. If not, replace.

Inspect sockets for discoloration

Yellow/brown marks = overheating. Replace immediately.

Check for loose sockets / switches

Should sit flush with wall plate. Loose = loose terminals = arcing risk.

Listen for buzzing at DB

Buzzing = loose connection or arcing. Call electrician immediately.

Verify outdoor socket IP rating

Outdoor sockets must be IP54+. Replace standard indoor sockets.

Test smoke detector batteries

Press test button — should beep loudly. Replace batteries annually.

Inspect visible wiring for cracks

Old PVC wiring cracks over 25+ years. Plan for rewiring.

Check water heater double-pole switch

Should cut power to heater when off. Mandatory outside bathroom.

Verify earthing at main DB

Earth resistance should be < 5 ohms. Professional test only.

Check water meter when no taps on

Spinning meter = active leak somewhere. Investigate.

Inspect under-sink cabinets for damp

Soft/wet cabinet floor = slow pipe joint leak.

Test all toilet flapper valves

Add dye to cistern. If bowl colors within 30 min — flapper is leaking.

Check toilet base for wax ring seal

Dampness or smell at base = failed wax ring. Replace.

Inspect visible pipes for corrosion

Green/white deposits = copper corrosion. Plan for replacement.

Test water heater T&P valve

Lift valve lever — should release water. If stuck, replace.

Check shower tray seal

Water tracking behind tiles = failed silicone seal. Re-seal.

Inspect balcony / outdoor drains

Lift cover — should be clear of sand. Clean monthly in summer.

Test washing machine hoses

Bulging or cracked hoses = burst risk. Replace with braided hoses.

Check water pressure

Should be 2-4 bar. Too high stresses fittings — install regulator.