A villa maintenance calendar for Dubai

Spring: get ready for the heat (March to May)

• Service every AC unit before temperatures climb. A breakdown in July means waiting in the busiest season.
• Check pool pumps and filtration, and book pool care for the summer if you will be away.
• Set irrigation timers for the summer schedule and walk the garden looking for wet patches or dry spots.
• Book pest control before the warmer months.

Summer: keep things running (June to August)

• Clean AC filters at least once a month. DEWA recommends this during summer, as clogged filters cut efficiency significantly.
• Keep thermostats at 24°C, as DEWA advises. Each degree higher can save up to 5% on AC consumption.
• Water plants before 8am or after 6pm, and cover the pool, both of which DEWA recommends to reduce evaporation.
• Watch the water bill. A sudden rise is often the first sign of a leak in irrigation or pipework.

Travelling this summer? Our summer travel checklist covers what to do before you leave.

Autumn: recover from the summer (September to November)

• Check each AC unit after its hardest months: drips, unusual noise or weak cooling are worth a visit now.
• Clear roof drains, terrace outlets and gutters before the winter rain.
• Look over exterior paint, sealant around windows and door seals, which take a beating in the heat.

Winter: the easy months (December to February)

• Open up and ventilate the house in cooler weather instead of running the AC, as DEWA suggests.
• Hot water use goes up. A good time to have the water heater checked.
• After heavy rain, check drains, the garden and any low points for standing water.
• Plan larger jobs such as painting or replacements for the cooler months.

All year

• Keep a register of every AC unit, water heater and pump with its installation date, last service and warranty.
• Plan AC replacements: DEWA puts the optimal life of an AC at about ten years.
• Have water tanks and pumps inspected and cleaned regularly. Ask your vendor how often for your home.