Singapore’s unique climate is the primary reason. The combination of year-round high humidity and urban pollution means your air conditioner works harder and is exposed to more contaminants. Humidity encourages mould and mildew growth inside the unit, while dust and particulate matter quickly clog filters and coils.

• General Service: A routine clean involving washing the air filters, vacuuming the fan coils, and checking coolant levels and overall performance. It’s for maintenance.
• Chemical Wash: A deeper clean where the internal components (fan coils, drain pan, blower wheel) are cleaned with a biodegradable chemical solution to remove stubborn grime, slime, and mould. It’s for units with visible dirt or reduced cooling.
• Chemical Overhaul: A comprehensive process where the entire indoor unit is disassembled and every part is thoroughly cleaned. It’s typically for very dirty, old units or those with severe mould and blockage issues.

Even with infrequent use, dust accumulates and the internal components remain in a humid environment, which can lead to mould growth and a musty smell. While you may stretch the interval slightly (e.g., every 4-5 months), it is not advisable to skip servicing entirely. Stagnation can lead to problems that are costly to fix later.

• Higher Energy Bills: A dirty system works harder, consuming up to 30% more electricity.
• Poor Air Quality: Circulates dust mites, mould spores, and bacteria, aggravating allergies, asthma, and causing respiratory issues.
• Weak Cooling: Reduced efficiency and uneven cooling.
• Water Leakage: Clogged drain pipes cause water to back up and leak into your room.
• System Breakdown: Strain on components like the compressor can lead to premature and expensive failures.

Yes. Look out for these warning signs: weak or warm airflow, unusual noises (hissing, grinding, rattling), water leaking from the indoor unit, a persistent musty or pungent odour when turned on, and a visible increase in your monthly electricity bill.

Absolutely, and you should. This is the most basic and crucial maintenance task. It’s recommended to rinse your reusable air filters with water every two weeks and let them dry completely before reinstalling. This simple act significantly improves air quality and unit efficiency.

Servicing is an investment that saves money in the long run by:

• Reducing Electricity Consumption: A clean unit operates efficiently, lowering your SP bill.
• Preventing Major Repairs: Identifying small issues early prevents costly breakdowns (e.g., compressor failure).
• Extending Lifespan: Well-maintained aircons can last 10-15 years, while neglected ones may fail in 5-7 years.

Yes. A clean aircon system does not prevent the spread of airborne viruses like COVID-19, which is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. However, regular servicing significantly improves indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, mould, and other pollutants that can circulate and exacerbate respiratory conditions.

This is often outlined in the Tenancy Agreement (TA). Typically, tenants are responsible for routine maintenance, such as filter cleaning and standard servicing, as it is considered part of everyday use. Landlords are usually responsible for major repairs and replacements. It is crucial to clarify this in the TA before signing to avoid disputes.