AC gurgling and not cooling: DIY fix or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been making a weird gurgling noise and the air just isn't as cold as it used to be, especially during the afternoon heat. I peeked at the unit on my balcony and the insulation around the copper pipes looks cracked and there's a bit of a white, powdery residue near the connections. I'm worried it's a mold chiller issue that's getting worse. For a one-bedroom apartment, is this something I can fix myself with a kit from Dragon Mart, or should I just call a professional HVAC company to get it sorted properly?
Posted by Sara Jaber
Asked on March 23, 2026 12:10 pm
Based on your description, this is a classic symptom of a refrigerant leak, not a "mold chiller" issue per se, though the resulting moisture from condensation can absolutely lead to mold growth inside your AC unit and ducting.

The gurgling noise is a key indicator that refrigerant levels are low, allowing air and moisture to enter the system. The white, powdery residue on the copper pipes is a tell-tale sign of a leak - that's oxidized copper from the reaction between the refrigerant/oil mix and the air. The cracked insulation on the suction line will also cause massive condensation and ice buildup, further reducing cooling efficiency, especially during JVC's peak afternoon heat.

This is absolutely NOT a DIY job from Dragon Mart. In the UAE, handling refrigerants requires an approved license from the Dubai Municipality and use of certified equipment. Tampering with the sealed refrigerant circuit yourself is illegal under UAE environmental regulations and can result in significant fines. Using an incorrect sealant or the wrong refrigerant type can cause a complete and very costly compressor burnout.

You need a professional HVAC technician to properly handle this. They will perform a pressure test to locate the leak, repair or replace the faulty component, evacuate the system to remove any moisture and air, and then recharge it with the exact type and weight of refrigerant specified. They will also replace the damaged insulation.

Given the moisture involved, it's also wise to have the evaporator coil and drain pan inspected for microbial growth. For a comprehensive assessment that covers both the HVAC repair and potential indoor air quality impact, our certified mold assessors can provide a full report.

Call a licensed HVAC professional immediately. For a combined HVAC and indoor air quality inspection, you can also reach us at 800-MOLDS or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 26, 2026 12:36 am