DIY AC filter cleaning vs professional service for noise and high bill?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Silicon Oasis has been making a weird grinding noise for about two weeks now, and my DEWA bill was almost 200 AED higher than usual last month. I'm pretty handy, but I'm worried I might mess with the unit and void the building's maintenance contract. What’s the actual difference between just cleaning the exterior filters myself versus getting a professional HVAC company to do a full service?
Posted by David Young
Asked on March 17, 2026 12:20 am
Based on your description of a grinding noise and a significantly higher DEWA bill, this absolutely warrants a professional inspection, not a DIY filter clean. Here's the core difference:

DIY filter cleaning only addresses the mesh exterior filters you can see. It improves airflow slightly but does nothing for the internal components. The grinding noise you hear is almost certainly a mechanical failure—likely a failing blower motor bearing or a compromised compressor. These are not user-serviceable parts. Continuing to run it in this state risks a complete system burnout, leading to a repair cost far exceeding a service charge.

The 200 AED bill increase is a major red flag. In Dubai's climate, that level of inefficiency points to a severe loss of refrigerant (a leak), a seized motor drawing excessive amps, or a filthy evaporator coil forcing the unit to run constantly. Only a professional can diagnose and repair these issues. Tampering with the sealed refrigerant system yourself is illegal under UAE regulations and will definitely void any maintenance contract.

For your situation in Silicon Oasis, a full professional hygienization and mechanical inspection is critical. They will clean the internal coils you can't reach, check refrigerant levels, diagnose the noise source, and ensure electrical safety. This will restore efficiency, lower your bill, and prevent a catastrophic failure. Given the symptoms, do not delay.

Call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a proper assessment. We can also liaise with your building's FM to ensure compliance with their maintenance contract.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 19, 2026 1:26 am