Your #1 Resource to Selecting the Best Aircon Brand and Technician in Singapore

How to Choose Aircon Brands That Will Keep Your Workplace Cool All Year Long

Businesses rely on air conditioning to keep their workers and clients comfortable. Air conditioning also aids in the prevention of heat damage to sensitive equipment and dust accumulation. Keep in mind that the ideal office temperature is 20–24°C – if your office is not within that range, it would be uncomfortable to work in and makes concentration difficult.

Not only does air conditioning create a comfortable environment, but it also has been shown to increase employee productivity as well as improve health. Studies indicate that workers in an air-conditioned office are more productive than those who do not have this luxury. Employers can see vast increases in what their team can get done by creating a space that is easy to focus on.

Air conditioning helps enhance employee health in addition to increasing production. Employees who work in a relaxed and comfortable environment tend to be more productive and feel happier about their jobs.

Different Types of Air Conditioning Systems

With the different options for air conditioning systems on the market, it can be tricky to know which one is right for your business. The correct system depends on numerous elements, like how much you're willing to spend, the size of your building, and any specific features you require.

The most common aircon systems for commercial use are the following:

Central Air Conditioners

A centralised or ducted aircon system is ideal for large office spaces because it can circulate cooled air evenly throughout the building via a ductwork system. A central air conditioning unit generally has an outdoor compressor and an indoor evaporator coil. This makes cooling a large area much more straightforward than with other methods.

Single Split System

Split-system air conditioners or inverter split ACs have one outdoor compressor and one indoor evaporator coil. The outside compressor drives refrigerant to the interior evaporator coil, where it circulates and cools the air in your house. This does not need to be positioned near a window like other types of casement or window AC units. This type of cooling system is perfect for small cafés and retail stores. 

Inverter Multi-Split

A multi-split air conditioner consists of one outdoor air conditioning unit that connects to two or more specified indoor units. If, for example, the label indicates a three-system aircon, it means it has one outdoor and two indoor units connected. These units can be operated as a group or individually only when needed to save energy. This system is recommended for office spaces that are medium to large. One advantage of this system is that if a unit breaks down, the rest will still function.

VRV or VRF System

Refrigerant volume (VRV) or variable refrigerant flow (VRF) refers to a system with inverter technology compressors, numerous air handlers within the same refrigerant loop, and a modular expansion option for rooms that need to be expanded in the future. The VRV or VRF building consists of one outdoor unit with multiple compressors, refrigerant pipes, copper pipe distributors, and several indoor units. This is suitable for hotels, office buildings, and other large areas that require cooling and heating.

Cassette Type Aircon

Cassette-type air conditioners are ducted systems that are installed within the ceiling grid. The cassette unit has an inbuilt blower, fan, and evaporator coil. The main advantage of this type of air conditioner is that it takes up very little space and can be easily hidden away from view. This system evenly cools or heats ample space and is recommended for offices, hotels, and other small commercial areas.

Best Aircon Brands for Commercial Use 

There are many different brands of air conditioners on the market, but not all are suitable for commercial use. Some of the best aircon brands for commercial use are:

Panasonic

Pro: efficient, inverter technology saves power

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: nanoe-G air purification system removes harmful airborne particles

With over 100 years of experience, Panasonic has a reputation for quality and reliability. Using innovative technology, their air conditioners provide efficient cooling and heating without sacrificing being eco-friendly. Panasonic offers different models of commercial air conditioners to cater to various needs. Multi Split Air Conditioners are ideal for businesses needing cooling for multiple rooms or areas simultaneously. On the other hand, Inverter Air Conditioners are perfect for industrial use cases.

Daikin

Pro: energy efficient, inverter technology saves power

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: self-cleaning function helps to keep the air clean and fresh

Daikin has been a leading provider of air conditioning solutions for over 90 years, so you can be confident that they have a solution that will meet your needs. With features like inverter technology, Econo mode and self-diagnostics, our commercial air conditioners are designed to save you money and keep your business comfortable all year round. When it comes to capacity, Daikin commercial air conditioners are available in a range of sizes. The smallest units can cool an area of up to 100 square feet, while the largest units can handle an area of up to 4,000 square feet. Daikin units are also available in a variety of voltages, so you can choose the right unit for your needs.

LG

Pro: efficient operation, quiet operation

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: Motion Detection technology adjusts cooling and heating output based on the movement of people in the room

Design and technology have always been at the forefront of LG air conditioners. They are built to be energy-efficient, allowing businesses to save money on their power bills. LG's most recent commercial aircon models are up to 40% more energy-efficient than previous versions, making them an excellent choice for companies looking to decrease their carbon footprint. They also come with several convenient features, including auto-restart and self-cleaning capabilities.

Fujitsu

Pro: efficient, inverter technology saves power

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: nanoe-G air purification system removes harmful airborne particles

The Fujitsu ASU9RLF is a fantastic choice for businesses that require a powerful air conditioner. It has a rotary compressor that allows for fast cooling and is designed to be used in large rooms. The self-cleaning function of the ASU9RLF aids in maintaining optimum performance.

The Fujitsu AOU36CLX air conditioner is an excellent choice if you want a model that offers heating and cooling. This particular unit has a heat pump for efficiently heating or cooling your space and an inverter compressor to help save on energy costs. Its self-cleaning function also keeps it running smoothly.

Hitachi

Pro: efficient, inverter technology saves power

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: i-Clean technology automatically cleans the air conditioner, improving its efficiency and extending its lifespan

The Hitachi commercial air conditioner is a popular choice among companies in Singapore due to its dependability, efficiency, and simple maintenance. It's also available in a variety of versions to meet the unique demands of businesses. Their commercial air-conditioner line is designed for efficient space cooling and heating in settings such as office buildings, malls, and factories. The multi-split type AC is perfect for offices with multiple rooms while the inverter type is great for energy efficiency in places like factories.

Mitsubishi Electric

Pro: efficient, quiet operation

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: wireless remote control

Pioneering technology and innovation since 1934, Mitsubishi continues to create coordinated solutions that provide maximum comfort, energy efficiency and operating economy. Mitsubishi commercial air conditioners offer some of the best specs in the industry. Their units are highly efficient, with some models boasting EERs of up to 23. They also offer a wide variety of features, such as dehumidification and self-cleaning filters. Some models even come with built-in Wi-Fi, so you can control them from your smartphone or tablet.

Carrier

Pro: efficient, inverter technology saves power

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: Air Quality Management System monitors and adjusts the indoor air quality

Carrier commercial aircon is one of the most well-known brands in Singapore. It is recognised for its high quality and endurance. Their units have inverter technology to save energy and provide stable cooling or heating; multi-split systems can be connected to multiple indoor units, so you can cool or heat different areas of your home or office independently; and self-diagnostic features that help in troubleshooting problems quickly and easily.

York

Pro: efficient, inverter technology saves power

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: Germicidal UV Lamp sterilises the air, helping to improve indoor air quality

With 50 years of experience under their belt, they have earned a great reputation based on the quality and reliability of their products. Their systems are designed to provide efficient cooling and heating, making them perfect for office buildings, retail stores, hotels and more. The York YCA Series, for example, includes features like energy-efficient operation, simple installation and maintenance, and a wide range of cooling and heating capacities. It’s also available in different versions, such as the YCA-12, YCA-15, YCA-20, and YCA-25. 

Toshiba

Pro: efficient, inverter technology saves power

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: Econo Cooling mode saves energy by reducing cooling output when the room is not in use

Toshiba air conditioners are well-known for their dependability and effectiveness. Ducted air conditioners from Toshiba are available in both wall-mounted and floor-standing configurations. Small spaces may be cooled efficiently with wall-mounted models; however, large rooms may benefit more from floor-standing units. Toshiba also provides a comprehensive selection of ducted air conditioning solutions that are ideal for large office or industrial areas.

Samsung

Pro: efficient, inverter technology saves power

Con: more expensive than other brands

Special feature: Wind-Free Technology circulates cool air without direct airflow, making it more comfortable to be in the room

Samsung Commercial Air Conditioners are created to be both energy-efficient and dependable. They also include a variety of functions, making them ideal for any business. Some versions come with a built-in air purifier that can aid in the removal of hazardous pollutants from the environment. Other variants feature self-cleaning and anti-corrosion features that allow them to stay clean and dust-free. Samsung provides a range of aircon units, including split-type, ceiling cassette, and floor-standing models. There are also various installation methods offered: ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, and floor-standing units.

How to Select the Right Room Air Conditioner for Your Space

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing an air conditioning system for a business, including:

Room Size

To effectively cool a large room, more BTUs (British Thermal Units) are required. This is because heat always flows from hot to cold until both area reach equilibrium. There is more heat for the air conditioner to handle in a big room, therefore it must work harder. If you try to cool a big area with a small air conditioner, it won't function correctly. The same goes for a small room with a very large air conditioner – the machine will have to cycle on and off frequently, wasting energy and money.

Equipment and Products Stored

The cooling demands of a room are influenced by the equipment and goods that are being utilised or stored in it. If the space is going to be used for storage, for example, you won't require as much cooling capacity as you would if it were going to be utilised for an electronics cluster like a server room.

The more electronics and equipment there are in the room, the greater the heat output. The more equipment there is in the area, the hotter it gets, and the extra cooling capacity is required. Various forms of materials give out different amounts of heat, which may have an impact on efficiency.

Space Layout

Air conditioners don't just rely on their own mechanisms to cool a space - the layout of the room is also crucial. For instance, aspects such as the size and shape of the room, windows, and airflow all play a role in how effective an air conditioner will be. If the room’s height is 10 feet, place the unit no more than 8 feet from the floor. Doing so will result in maximum cooling efficiency.

Furthermore, you must also take the spacing of your indoor units into consideration. By ensuring there is efficient airflow around the unit, heat will be extracted from the room more effectively. Leave 10 to 15 cm of space around the indoor unit and avoid placing any other heat-producing equipment near it.

Required Humidity Level

The amount of humidity required for proper operation also changes depending on the type of air conditioner. Central units and swamp coolers both work by evaporating water to lower the temperature, but they have different moisture levels that they need. For instance, central ACs require a relative humidity close to 50%.

The drier demands of housing arises from the lower number people in homes compared to office buildings or other populated areas where more body heat is generated. Consequently, the greater presence of moisture helps make these business locations comfortable by offsetting the increased amount warmth.

Air Quality and Filtration

There are various types of air filters that can be used in an air conditioner, with the pleated filter being the most common. These only trap larger particles though and need to be replaced every three months on average.

Another kind of air filter that may be used in air conditioners is the HEPA filters which remove smaller particles from the air and can help with allergies and respiratory issues. The unit must be able to remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles from the air. People who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems should pay particular attention to this.

Noise Level

The level of noise is often a make-or-break factor in terms of comfort, and it can also determine how easy it is to hear other noises around you. In some instances, excessive noise might even lead to health issues. Soundproofing materials can be used in the area where the installation will take place. This will help to lower overall noise levels in the room.

While most current air conditioners are quiet, the evaporative coolers and fans in the system generates noise levels of 37 to 82 dBA. This is a consideration for businesses seeking to reduce unwanted noise. The decibel level of indoor and outdoor units is typically stated on the product specifications. The greater the cooling capacity, the louder the unit's sound. The noisiest air conditioners have a decibel range of 37 to 46.

Efficiency Rating

The less energy a unit uses, the higher its efficiency rating will be. This not only saves you money each month but also helps slow down climate change. In Singapore, air conditioners are given an efficiency rating of 1 to 5 Ticks.

The Tick rating system is used to measure the energy efficiency of aircon units. The watermark label on the unit will show the annual energy cost, typical appliance usage, and capacity in kilowatts. One tick means it is low or least energy efficient while five ticks indicate that it is excellent or most energy efficient. A higher number means lower power consumption for optimal function.

Ductwork and Outdoor Unit 

The air ducts transport and distribute the air in the AC system. During the AC installation, these are laid out with the coolers and blowers which help regulate temperature and air flow. Incorrect ductwork size can create high static pressure, resulting in insufficient air flow and trapping the air in the system. High static also damages the blower and poor sealing in the joints leads to 20% of cool air leaks.

Properly place your unit on the exterior of the building for it to function properly. There should be a clearance of 12 to 24 inches from all sides, and a minimum vertical clearance of 60 inches; however, if materials surrounding the unit are porous (allowing air circulation), then spacing becomes less important.

Air Conditioner Features to Look for When Buying

When shopping for an air conditioner, there are a few features that you should look for:

Temperature Control: You'll want an air conditioner that can maintain a consistent temperature in your space, even as the outside temperature fluctuates. Look for a unit with multiple cooling settings, touchpads, large LED displays, clear labelling, and a thermostat that you can adjust to your specific needs.

Modes: Generally, aircon units have four settings including low, medium, high, and auto. These refer to fan settings. But there are additional modes in other models, such as

Cool – the compressor shuts off once the desired temperature is achieved

Dry – the unit reduces room humidity

Fan – only the fan runs and the compressor is turned off

Sleep – the unit increases the set temperature by half or 1 degree after each hour

Turbo – the temperature is set to the lowest possible level

Energy saver – the circulation and exhaust fans are turned off if the compressor is not running

Airflow Capacity: Having just the right airflow capacity allows your air conditioner to adequately and evenly cools your space faster. The unit should have at least two fans for proper airflow. There are models that feature directional airflow vents or louvers that can be adjusted horizontally or vertically.

Energy Efficiency: Commercial air conditioners operate at a high level of efficiency, which means there is no need to work harder to cool the temperature. Look for a unit with the Tick rating to be sure it meets the desired energy-efficiency standards.

Durability: A commercial air conditioner is a significant investment, so you'll want to choose a unit that is built to last. Look for a unit with a corrosion-resistant finish and a heavy-duty construction.

BTU Output: The higher the BTU output, the more powerful the unit will be. However, the cooling capacity should be based on the size of the room because a high BTU for a small space will leave it humid, while a lower BTU will make the unit work harder.

Air Filtration: Filtration supplies the means to obtain the level of particulate cleanliness required. Air filters are rated using minimum efficiency reporting values (MERV). For commercial buildings, a MERV between 8 to 10 is recommended. Adding HEPA filters is also necessary in areas that are exposed to particles as small as 0.3 micrometres.

Noise Level: A noisy aircon affects concentration and interrupts conversation. Ideal noise levels for office settings should be under 60 dB.

Coverage of Aircon Installation and Aircon Servicing

Air conditioner servicing and installation is a process that should be done by a professional. A qualified technician will be able to properly install your air conditioner and ensure that it is working properly. They will also be able to service your air conditioner and make sure that it is running efficiently.

There are a few key differences between air conditioner installation and maintenance services. Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to each service:

Aircon Installation

- Duct Installation: The area is visually inspected to create a layout of the duct. The room or building might have to undergo renovation or repair first before the ductwork is installed.

- Aircon Installation: The technician chooses the correct spot for the indoor and outdoor units, ensuring sufficient airflow.

- Removal or Replacement: An aircon is relocated or removed if the technician has determined it was installed improperly. This also involves removal of accessories, piping, and ductwork that are no longer necessary.

- Calibration and Assessment: The AC unit is run to determine its performance. The technician detects the temperature, humidity, airflow, air speed, and overpressure using gauges and transmitters.

Aircon Services

- Regular Maintenance: This includes cleaning of the aircon parts, lubrication of fans and motors, and checking of electric connections.

- Inspection and Testing: The technician will make sure each part is working correctly. The following components are checked: connections, supply and return lines, operating pressure and temperatures, refrigerant levels, and the condition of the coils, blower, and motor.

- Repair: Breakdowns in the unit caused by faulty or broken parts are addressed. Parts may be replaced.

- Overhaul: The goal of aircon chemical overhaul is to remove accumulated dirt and oil in the unit that has not been serviced for a long time. This is also recommended for old AC units that frequently break down to increase their lifespan.

Characteristics and Qualities of a Professional Aircon Installation and Servicing Company

A competent and professional air conditioning contractor will assist you in determining what sort of system to invest in by informing you about the various types. The following features should be present in a reputable aircon servicing and installation business:

Valid License

A license proves that the company is legitimate and has the proper permits to carry out its services. The Building and Construction Authority issues licenses for aircon servicing, suppliers, and contractors in Singapore. This certification requires these professionals to be trained in aircon installation and servicing aircon and refrigeration systems every three years.

Insurance

A professional company will be insured in case of any damages that may occur during the servicing or installation process. This protects both the company and the customer from any financial liability.

Experience

A team of experienced and certified staff that are able to carry out the servicing and installation process correctly. They will also be able to provide advice on which type of aircon system is best suited for your needs. Experienced aircon technicians have a background in refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump systems. 

Proper Tools and Equipment

A professional company will have the necessary tools and equipment to properly service and install an aircon unit. This includes an air conditioner installation kit, an AC service kit, and a set of AC test instruments.

Competitive Rates

A professional company will provide a written estimate of aircon installation price and the servicing cost before any work is carried out. This estimate should itemise the cost of labour, materials, and any other charges. Some companies understand that money can be tight, so they offer service specials and discounts to help with costs. Estimate fees can become expensive, try to find a company that offers free estimates on repairs. This way, you're not being charged simply to have somebody look at the problem.

Warranty

Air conditioning installation and service is a complicated and difficult business to understand; things can go wrong unexpectedly and at any time. So when you see a company promising guarantees on their services, it means that the quality of service they provide is exceptional enough that they are confident in what they do. This guarantees that the customer is satisfied with the work that has been carried out. It also provides peace of mind in knowing that the company stands behind their work.

If you want to install a new or bigger air conditioning system in your home or office, it's crucial that you work with a high-quality supplier or contractor. Reach out to one of our recommended companies in Singapore and see what they have to offer.