The Ultimate Guide To Aircon Servicing In Singapore

PART 1 – INTRODUCTION

Picture this: it is another scorching day in Singapore, and you cannot wait to step into your home or office, eagerly anticipating the refreshing blast of cool air that awaits you. But instead of the chilly relief you were hoping for, you are greeted with tepid, lacklustre airflow. We have all been there, and it can be frustrating.

So why does this happen? Like any other home appliance, your aircon will experience wear and tear from constant use and develop mechanical problems during its lifespan. So regular aircon maintenance is necessary to ensure your system continues operating smoothly.

In this guide, we will walk you through the vital components of your aircon system and their functionality, equip you with the knowledge you need to troubleshoot minor problems on your own, and demystify when you should contact a technician to carry out repairs for your aircon.

PART 2 – OVERVIEW OF AIRCON SERVICING

2.1. How Your Air Conditioner Functions

Regardless of its shape, size, or brand, an air conditioning system operates on the same fundamental scientific principle and mechanical means. It cools a room by transferring heat away from the area. When that heat is absent, the remaining cold air cools the space.

To help you understand this system better, let us take a closer look at the essential components within:

1. Compressor

Often referred to as the heart of the air conditioner, the compressor plays a vital role in circulating the refrigerant and maintaining the desired temperature. It compresses the refrigerant gas, increasing its temperature and pressure before passing it to the condenser.

2. Condenser

The condenser, which is located in the outdoor unit, facilitates the heat exchange process. As the high-pressure refrigerant gas enters the condenser, it releases heat to the surrounding environment, causing the gas to condense into a high-pressure liquid.

3. Evaporator

Housed in the indoor unit, the evaporator functions as a heat absorber. The low-pressure liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator, where it expands and evaporates into a gas. This transformation absorbs heat from the indoor air, effectively cooling it.

4. Blower

The blower, often integrated with the indoor unit, is responsible for circulating the cooled air throughout your living space. It draws warm air from the room and passes it over the evaporator coil, where the heat exchange occurs.

5. Fan

Fans are present in both indoor and outdoor units, aiding airflow and heat dissipation. They ensure proper circulation of air across the evaporator and condenser coils, optimising the cooling process.

6. Filter

An air conditioner’s first line of defence against airborne particles and dust. The filter traps contaminants and prevents them from entering the system, ensuring clean and healthy indoor air quality.

7. Thermostat

As the control centre of the entire air conditioning system, the thermostat allows you to set and regulate the desired temperature. It monitors the ambient temperature and signals the air conditioner to cycle on or off to maintain the desired cooling level.

These components, working in synergy, enable your air conditioner to create a comfortable and refreshing indoor environment. The thermostat begins the process by monitoring and controlling the temperature. When it senses that the temperature must be lowered, it signals the indoor and outdoor units to begin operating. 

The fan within the indoor unit pulls the warm air from your room, which is filtered and passed over the cold evaporator coil. As the warm air comes into contact with the liquid refrigerant within the cold coil, the heat is transferred from the air to the refrigerant. The cooled air is then circulated back into the room.

Simultaneously, the heat absorbed by the refrigerant is carried into the compressor, located within the outdoor unit, via a copper tube. The compressor pressurises the gas before directing the refrigerant to the condenser coil, which also pulls air from the outside through a separate fan. The ambient air causes the refrigerant to cool, converting it to liquid form, where it flows back into the evaporator coil in the indoor unit to restart the cooling cycle.

2.2. How To Clean Your Air Conditioner

While professional aircon servicing is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your aircon, there are specific cleaning tasks you can perform yourself to keep your aircon running efficiently throughout the year. In fact, doing so can help you minimise problematic issues and costly repairs in the future. So it is time to roll up your sleeve and prepare to give your aircon the thorough cleaning it requires.

1. Use a vacuum cleaner

Vacuuming your aircon is the simplest and easiest way to keep the surface and exposed parts of the unit dust free without dismantling the system. Attach a brush attachment to your vacuum cleaner and gently run the vacuum cleaner over the entire surface of the unit to remove any loose dust or debris from the exterior surfaces. Doing so can eliminate surface dirt and prevent it from entering the aircon, ensuring better airflow and cooling performance.

Afterwards, remove the front cover of your unit and vacuum the internal components, like the ducts, evaporator coils, fans, filters, and pipes to eradicate any loose dust and debris. This way, you prevent grime from accumulating and clogging up your system. When this happens, you will require an aircon chemical wash to clean the unit thoroughly.

2. Clean with chemicals

Chances are there will be significant debris build-up within your unit if you have not cleaned your aircon in a while. In this case, you will need an aircon chemical wash. Chemical cleaning is the most effective way to eliminate deep-rooted dirt, mould, and other toxic gunk from the components of your aircon.

However, you must first dismantle everything for adequate and direct cleaning. Remove each part delicately and immerse it in a gentle cleaning solution. For pipes and other components that cannot be separated, they must be flushed with the chemical agent. Subsequently, wipe the dirt away with a clean, soft cloth.

3. Change the filter

The aircon filter is often overlooked by most homeowners. However, it is crucial in trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, ensuring clean and healthy indoor air quality. Hence, cleaning and changing the filter regularly should be an essential part of your aircon maintenance process.

Remove the main casing of your unit to detach the filter. Once you have done so, wipe it with a clean cloth before rinsing it with water and cleansing it with a mild cleaning agent. After the filter has dried completely, reattach it to your aircon.

However, if you notice wear or damage to the current air filter, seek a brand-new replacement immediately. We recommend investing in a high-quality filter to eradicate allergens and other harmful airborne pollutants to improve indoor air quality. Basic, cheap air filters are barely effective and are only capable of removing dust and bacteria.

4. Clear the aircon drain

Source: WhisperKOOL

A backed-up drain can cause water damage to the ceiling and walls of your house. Therefore, it is imperative to clear the drain of your aircon by vacuuming it at least once yearly. For more thorough cleaning, you can get a cap from a hardware store to place at the end of the drain before using a dry vacuum to extract any dirt and debris from the outside end of the drain. Subsequently, remove the cap once the cleaning is completed.

2.3. Signs That You Require Aircon Servicing

At the end of the day, regardless of how well you clean and maintain your aircon, there may still be issues surfacing that require professional aircon servicing. So how can you tell when your aircon needs general servicing? After all, as an inanimate object, it is impossible for it to communicate that it has mechanical problems. Fret not! There are several tell-tale signs that can indicate you require aircon maintenance. Identifying these issues early can help you prevent significant problems down the line.

Sign #1: Your aircon is blowing warm air

Your aircon has one job, and that is to keep your home or office cool. So, something is amiss if the system is blowing out warm air instead of refreshing cold air despite the correct thermostat settings. There are various possible explanations for why your aircon is not cold, including low refrigerant levels or a malfunctioning compressor. Regardless of the cause, we recommend contacting a professional aircon service to schedule a technician to inspect and rectify this issue.

Sign #2: Weak airflow

This issue may share similarities to the previous problem. But it is quite different. You may still notice cold air emanating from the vents. However, the airflow is weak despite adjusting the temperature to the lowest setting and configuring the fan speed to high. As a result, you are still left feeling hot and stuffy. Regular aircon servicing can identify and resolve the possible causes, improving airflow and overall aircon efficiency.

Sign #3: Malfunctioning thermostat

As the command centre of your air conditioning system, the thermostat is responsible for letting the aircon know the appropriate temperature to maintain. So when it malfunctions, you may notice temperature inconsistencies or the system shutting itself off after small periods of time. If you experience these issues, it is a clear sign that professional aircon servicing is necessary. A technician can help calibrate or replace the thermostat, ensuring it accurately regulates the desired temperature.

Sign #4: Loud noises coming from the aircon

Unusual or excessively loud noises emanating from your air conditioner should never be ignored. These sounds could indicate several issues, such as loose or damaged components, a malfunctioning fan motor, or debris trapped in the system. You may want to contact a professional aircon service to conduct an inspection as soon as possible to avoid costly damages to your aircon.

Learn More: 3 Possible Reasons Your Aircon is Making a Hissing Sound

Sign #5: Strange odours whenever you turn on the aircon

Your aircon is not supposed to smell. So if you detect any strange odour emanating from the system, there is an issue. A burning smell may indicate a burned-out wire. Meanwhile, a musty odour indicates mould or mildew building up inside the unit or ductwork. General aircon servicing is essential to eradicate foul stench and improve indoor air quality.

Sign #6: Water is leaking from the aircon

Any moisture leaking in or around your aircon represents a significant problem. If your aircon is leaking water, you could be looking at a clogged condensate drain line, frozen evaporator coils, or other issues. Ignoring this can result in costly water damage down the line, leading to system failure. Therefore, professional aircon servicing is crucial to rectify the root cause of the leakage, keeping your air conditioner functioning optimally.

Sign #7: Rising electricity bills

A sudden increase in your electricity bill without a corresponding change in usage patterns is never a positive sign. It likely means your aircon has not been adequately maintained and is losing energy efficiency. Dirty coils or clogged filters are possible reasons why your system must work harder and consume more power. Scheduling an aircon chemical cleaning can eliminate dirt, grime, and other impurities, restoring your aircon’s energy efficiency and keeping your electricity bills in check.

PART 3 – WHEN TO CONTACT A PROFESSIONAL

AIRCON MAINTENANCE COMPANY

3.1. Benefits Of Hiring An Air Conditioner Maintenance Company

If you have spotted any of the signs shared above, you should contact an expert for help. Some mistakenly assume they are capable of troubleshooting their aircon. However, the fact is, only a qualified technician can appropriately identify and resolve the issue plaguing the aircon. Let us share the benefits of hiring a professional aircon service.

Benefit #1: Guaranteed results

Unlike an amateur, a professional technician possesses the prerequisite knowledge and tools to detect and repair a broad range of air conditioner models. By entrusting your aircon servicing to professionals, you can rest assured that they will perform comprehensive inspections, identify underlying issues, and provide effective solutions. Their expertise ensures that your aircon receives the attention it needs, leaving you with a well-maintained and efficient cooling system.

Benefit #2: Convenience and reliability

Aircon maintenance is a complex and time-consuming task for an amateur. A single mistake could end up causing more issues down the line, resulting in higher servicing costs. Moreover, the aircon repairs will likely take longer to complete. These issues are a non-concern when you hire a professional aircon service.

The company will schedule appointments at your convenience, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily routine. Additionally, they adhere to strict timelines and provide reliable services, giving you the peace of mind that your aircon will be properly maintained without any delays or inconveniences.

Benefit #3: Safety

There are safety risks involved in repairing equipment consisting of electrical components and mechanical parts. An air conditioning system is no different. Any error in servicing the delicate components, such as the electrical parts and fan blades, may result in an accident.

Fortunately, a professional aircon service can ensure that these concerns are prevented. The technicians are instructed to prioritise safety during every step of the servicing process. They follow industry safety protocols, use appropriate tools and protective equipment, and are well-versed in handling potentially hazardous materials, like the refrigerant.

Benefit #4: Better performance after servicing

Regular aircon maintenance is necessary to improve aircon performance. A skilled technician can thoroughly clean and inspect each component, including coils, filters, and fans, ensuring they are free from contaminants. They also check for any worn-out parts or potential issues that may affect performance.

By addressing these concerns, professionals help optimise the functionality of your aircon, enhancing it to run more smoothly and efficiently. As a result, you can enjoy enhanced air quality and cooler air whenever you switch on your aircon. You may even notice a reduction in your electricity bills!

3.2. How To Choose A Reliable Air Conditioner Maintenance Company

Now that you have a better understanding of the benefits of hiring an aircon maintenance company, you might be wondering how you can select a reliable service. After all, with various aircon servicing companies available in Singapore, it can be challenging to narrow down your option to one. Fret not! Check out the factors to pay attention to during your search to help you narrow down your ideal candidate.

Factor #1: Services provided

It can be a hassle to contact one company for installation and another for servicing. For your convenience, it is best to seek a professional that offers end-to-end solutions, including aircon gas top-up, chemical washing, installation, and other general services. This way, you only need to make a single phone call whenever an issue arises.

Factor #2: Reputation and experience

We understand wanting to save cost. However, hiring a fly-by-night company comes with its risks. The services rendered may be sloppy, resulting in further issues that require more expensive repairs down the line. So it is always best to choose a reliable aircon maintenance company with years of experience in the industry. You can visit the website of your shortlisted services or read online reviews to determine if the company’s profile fits your requirements. Alternatively, you can ask for references online or from a friend or relative.

Factor #3: Trained and qualified technicians

Reliable aircon service and qualified technicians often go hand-in-hand. With that said, it is still wise to enquire about the experience of the staff beforehand. Remember, an aircon is a complex mechanism, and any mistake in the wiring or fitting could result in costly failure. Therefore, only a trained technician with the necessary qualification should be allowed to maintain your aircon.

Factor #4: Availability

It is impossible to predict when your aircon will break down. If it occurs over the weekend, it could take a day or two before you can get the unit repaired. However, if the weather is unbearable, you will likely want a technician available immediately to rectify the issue. That is why you should look for an aircon maintenance company that offers its services any day of the week.

PART 4 – FAQS ABOUT AIRCON SERVICING

4.1. Common Queries About Aircon Servicing

We hope what we shared has provided you with a clear understanding of the importance of maintaining your aircon regularly and how a reliable aircon service can help you achieve this goal. Nevertheless, we understand that you might have several lingering questions that may not have been addressed by our comprehensive guide. So allow us to compile the most pressing questions we receive from our customers and our responses to these queries.

Question #1: Why is my aircon not working?

Many often panic when they cannot switch on their aircon, assuming their units must have malfunctioned. However, that may not always be the case. One possible explanation is that the electrical power is not being supplied to the air conditioner. To ensure the power is not tripped, perform an initial assessment of your electrical panel. If the electricity supply is not the issue, you should contact a technician to repair the aircon.

Question #2: Why do I need to service my aircon regularly?

We always recommend users conduct aircon maintenance regularly so that:

• The aircon is more efficient and cools your home or office better;
• The electrical consumption of your unit is lower;
• A breakdown is less likely to occur, necessitating an expensive repair;
• The equipment’s lifespan is prolonged.

Question #3: How often should I service my aircon?

Generally, residential air conditioners should be serviced and checked once every 3 months. Meanwhile, commercial aircon must be inspected monthly. However, the duration may vary depending on usage and other environmental factors.

PART 5 – CONCLUSION

Taking care of your air conditioner through regular servicing is crucial for its optimal performance and longevity. By following the maintenance guidelines outlined in our guide, you can ensure that your aircon remains in top condition, providing you with cool and comfortable indoor spaces year-round.

Additionally, general aircon servicing should not be overlooked. The expertise and knowledge of trained technicians can ensure your aircon maintains its optimal functioning, providing you with cleaner indoor air quality and enhanced comfort. Take care of your air conditioner, and it will take care of you. 

Fortunately, you do not have to search far to identify the ideal aircon service for your needs. At GoodCool Aircon Servicing & Repair, we have over 15 years of experience in the industry. As such, you can rest easy knowing your air conditioning system is in safe hands when you engage our technicians’ help in maintaining your unit. Do not hesitate to contact us today to enquire about our prices and services.