In a country like Singapore, where the weather is hot and humid almost all year round, air conditioning is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. But with the constant use of air conditioners comes the inevitable spike in electricity bills. This has led many homeowners and business owners to ask: Can aircon servicing reduce electricity bills?
The answer is a resounding yes—regular aircon servicing can lead to noticeable energy savings. In this blog post, we’ll explore how aircon servicing helps reduce electricity consumption, the common problems it prevents, and practical tips for maximizing your unit’s efficiency.
Understanding How Air Conditioners Consume Energy
Before we dive into the benefits of aircon servicing, it’s essential to understand how air conditioners consume electricity.
An air conditioner works by drawing warm air from a room, cooling it using a refrigerant, and then releasing the cool air back into the space. During this process, the system’s compressor, fan, and other components are hard at work. The harder your unit has to work to cool your space, the more electricity it uses.
Over time, dust and debris build up inside the aircon unit, filters get clogged, and parts may wear out. This leads to reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption.
How Aircon Servicing Can Reduce Electricity Bills
- Improved Airflow and Cooling Efficiency
When the filters and vents are clogged with dust, the airflow is restricted. The system has to work much harder to push cool air into the room. This means longer running times and higher electricity usage.
Regular servicing ensures that filters are clean and airflow is optimal, allowing the system to cool the room quickly and efficiently. As a result, it doesn’t need to run as long or as hard—saving you money on electricity.
- Clean Coils Help in Efficient Heat Transfer
The evaporator and condenser coils in an air conditioner play a crucial role in heat exchange. When these coils are covered with grime and dust, the system struggles to transfer heat efficiently.
During servicing, technicians clean the coils, ensuring the system can perform heat exchange effectively. This lowers the strain on the compressor and reduces the overall energy draw.
- Preventing Refrigerant Leaks and Low Levels
Low refrigerant levels make it difficult for the aircon to cool properly. In this situation, the unit compensates by working longer and harder, increasing electricity consumption.
Aircon servicing includes checking refrigerant levels and detecting leaks early. Fixing these issues not only restores cooling performance but also cuts down unnecessary energy usage.
- Well-Maintained Components Operate Efficiently
An air conditioner is a complex system with multiple moving parts—motors, fans, compressors, and more. Over time, these components experience wear and tear.
Servicing helps identify worn-out parts and lubricate moving components, allowing the system to operate smoothly. Efficient components mean less energy wastage.
- Accurate Thermostat Calibration
Sometimes, inefficient cooling is caused by a poorly calibrated or faulty thermostat. If the thermostat reads the room temperature incorrectly, it might cause the system to overwork.
Servicing includes checking and calibrating the thermostat to ensure accurate readings and optimal operation cycles. This helps maintain a comfortable temperature without overburdening the system.
- Prevention of Costly Breakdowns
An aircon breakdown not only causes inconvenience but can lead to long, energy-draining operation before complete failure. Regular servicing identifies potential problems early, preventing unexpected issues that might drive up your electricity bills.
Real Savings: How Much Can You Actually Save?
While the exact amount varies depending on the unit type, age, and usage patterns, studies and real-world data suggest that regular aircon servicing can improve efficiency by 15% to 30%.
This translates to noticeable savings, especially in households or offices with multiple air conditioning units running daily. In the long run, the cost of servicing pays for itself through reduced energy bills.
Signs That Your Aircon Needs Servicing
To keep your aircon operating efficiently, it’s important to recognize the signs that it may be due for servicing. Here are some common indicators:
- Higher-than-usual electricity bills
- Reduced cooling performance
- Unusual noises from the unit
- Foul or musty odour
- Water leakage or ice formation
- Aircon takes longer to cool the room
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to call a professional servicing company.
How Often Should You Service Your Aircon?
For most homes in Singapore, servicing your air conditioner every 3 to 4 months is a good practice. However, if the unit is used heavily—such as in offices, shops, or 24/7 environments—monthly servicing may be more appropriate.
Some people opt for yearly chemical cleaning or overhaul for deeper maintenance, especially if the unit hasn’t been cleaned thoroughly in a while.
DIY Maintenance Tips to Support Energy Efficiency
While professional servicing is essential, you can also perform some basic maintenance tasks at home to help keep your aircon efficient:
- Clean or Replace Filters Monthly
Dirty filters restrict airflow. Cleaning reusable filters or replacing disposable ones monthly can help your aircon run more efficiently.
- Keep the Area Around the Outdoor Unit Clear
Ensure there’s no blockage around the outdoor compressor unit. Good airflow outside helps the system dissipate heat more effectively.
- Set the Thermostat Wisely
Avoid setting the temperature too low. A comfortable 24–26°C is typically sufficient and consumes less energy.
- Use Curtains and Blinds
Block out direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day to reduce the workload on your aircon.
- Turn Off When Not in Use
Use timers or smart systems to ensure your aircon isn’t running when no one is around.
Choosing the Right Aircon Servicing Provider
To truly benefit from reduced electricity bills, it’s essential to work with a reputable aircon servicing company. Here’s what to look for:
- Experienced technicians who understand different brands and models
- Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
- Comprehensive servicing packages (including general servicing, chemical wash, and overhaul)
- Good customer reviews and ratings
- Responsive customer service for booking and follow-up
A professional servicing provider can tailor their services to your usage pattern and unit condition—ensuring optimal performance.
Final Thoughts: Is Aircon Servicing Worth It?
So, can aircon servicing reduce electricity bills? Absolutely.
Air conditioners that are regularly maintained run more efficiently, last longer, and consume less energy. In Singapore’s climate, where aircon usage is unavoidable, taking a proactive approach to servicing can lead to significant cost savings and better comfort at home or work.
Think of it as an investment. Spending a small amount on maintenance now can save you a substantial amount in the long run—not just in terms of electricity, but also by avoiding costly repairs or replacements.
Ready to make your aircon more energy-efficient? Book a professional aircon servicing session today and start saving on your electricity bills!
