FAQ
Before Buying an Air Conditioner
What are the objectives of the Energy Labelling Scheme?
The objectives are:
1) Providing consumers with energy efficiency information of labelling product to make purchase decision.
2) Differentiating the product by energy efficiency and simulate introduction of cost effective, energy efficient technology.
3) Enhancing effort to promote environmental protection initiatives through usage of energy efficient product.
For more information, please visitSingapore National Environment Agency (NEA) website.
What does the Green Tick Rating Label means for air conditioning?
The Green Tick Rating Label means how energy efficient the air conditioner is according to the number of ticks given.
What is the estimated electrical consumption of an air conditioner per month
It depends on the air conditioner model you are using and the usage pattern.
The estimated electrical consumption can be calculated by using the following formula:
Estimated Electrical Consumption = Input (kW) X No. of hours used X No. of days per month X Current Utility Rate
What is the average life span of a residential air conditioner?
Generally, the average life span of any air conditioner is six to seven years.
This is subjected to usage pattern and regular servicing of the air conditioner by a qualified air conditioner technician.
What is an Inverter air conditioner? Is this more efficient than a non-Inverter conventional air conditioner?
An Inverter air conditioner delivers cool air by varying the frequency of the compressor, and thus regulates the refrigerant to satisfy room cooling requirements and achieve the desired temperature with minimal fluctuations. It eliminates waste with precise control. In this way, it is more energy efficient.
What is the average price of a Daikin air conditioner unit?
It depends on the air conditioning system requirements. Please contact ourAuthorised Dealersfor more details.
What model is suitable for my residence?
The selection depends on room size, usage, number of rooms you require to be air conditioned, HDB requirements and your preferred temperature setting. It would be advisable to consult your authorised dealers / contractors to perform a heat load calculation on your premise before selecting a suitable model for your application.
Planning Phase
How to choose an air conditioning system for the house?
To choose an air conditioning system for your house, you will need to:
1. Decide on the areas that require air conditioning.
2. Determine the cooling capacity required.
3. Determine the types of air con that you want.
4. Consider your budget.
How do I determine the air conditioner capacity required for my room?
For a quick estimation, we can use the rule of thumb:
Area (Length x Width) X 65 = BTU/hr
E.g. Room size 10ft X 10ft = 100ft2X 65 = 6,500BTU/hr.
Which air conditioner brand is better and causes fewer problems?
Although there are many brands of air conditioner in the market right now, they have similar function. Every brand has a few air conditioner models that they are good in. There is no particular brand that we can recommend which is better than the rest. One very important point to note is that the installation of the air condition plays an important role when it comes to having problem like water and gas leaking. With good installation, the occurrence of these problems can be kept at a minimal level.
What is an inverter air conditioner?
An inverter air conditioner uses an inverter circuit to regulate the rotational speed of the compressor to match the output of the compressor to the cooling pump load. This reduces the number of times the compressor stops and starts as the load varies, so saving on electricity bills and reducing noise levels compared to non-inverter models.
What is the difference between a window unit and a split system?
Awindow unitis a self-contained packaged air conditioner. All components are housed within the unit. It is installed through an opening in the wall and no inter-piping connection is required.
Asingle split, as it is called, comprises 2 parts that make up a system air conditioner: the outdoor unit (condenser) and indoor unit (Fan coil). The FCU is a cooling coil that cools the room, interconnection piping between the condenser and fan coil is required to run this system.
Amulti-splitunit consists of 1 condensing unit connected to more than 1 fan coil unit thus having the capability to cool multi rooms. The condenser can be a single compressor or multi compressors. Because of the design, single split and multi-split units are quieter than window units.
How long is the air conditioner installation?
The normal HDB installation will take 1 full day. And for other property air conditioner installation will have to depend on the piping length. Generally, 1 fan coil per day will be a safe estimation
How long is the warranty period?
Most air conditioners come with ONE year warranty (parts & labor for repair excluding servicing) and FIVE years part warranty for compressor.
Knowledge
What is the average life span of a residential air conditioner?
The average life span of an air conditioner is about 6-7 years, but it can be prolonged through proper maintenance by qualified technicians on a regular basis.
Why is the room not cold?
There are a number of causes to having a room that is not cold. We have listed some of the common causes:
1. Air filter dirty
2. Object blocking the air inlet/outlet of the indoor/outdoor units.
3. Aircon temperature is set too high.
4. Windows and doors are opened.
5. Airflow direction is not appropriately set.
6. Remote control is not in the cooling mode.
7. Parts may be faulty.
8. Fan motor is clod with dust. Thus, cool air is being blocked, therefore cannot be blown out.
9. The air conditioner installed is undersized.
Please contact qualified service technician to attend to your air conditioner.
Why is the air condition leaking water?
Water from the air condition is discharged out through a drainage pipe that is run from the fan coil unit to the nearest drain. Water will start to leak from the fan coil if the drainage pipe is clogged with dirt. This can also happen when the drainage pipe that is run between the fan coil unit to the drain does not have a proper gradient - poor installation. Please contact qualified service technician to attend to your air conditioner.
Why does water drip from the condenser (Outdoor unit)?
It is normal for water to drip from the condenser as condensation takes places when the warm air surrounds the piping condensate
Why does the air conditioner produce a foul smell?
This is due to the smell of the room, furniture, or cigarettes being absorbed into the unit and is discharged together with the airflow. Please contract qualified serviceman to service your air conditioner in the event the air con produce a foul smell.
Why is my air conditioner noisy?
The blower evaporating coil of the air conditioner may be dirty. Please contact qualified serviceman to service your air conditioner.
Why is the fan coil unit still operating when the condenser is not?
When the room temperature has reached its set temperature by the remote controller, the condenser will stop operating. It will resume operation once the temperature rises.
What happen if I do not do any servicing?
The life span of the air conditioner will be shortened, coolness decreases with usage and water leaking problem may occur as a result of a choke drainage system. The inefficient operation will then cause the electricity consumption to increase.
How often should I service my air-con?
Household air-conditioner should be serviced every 2 months. Air-conditioner for office and commercial usage should be serviced once every month.
Can we do the general service by ourselves?
Cleaning of fan coil and the cover of the air condition can be done easily but to take out the water tray will be tough for some people. To vacuum the drainage system and to check the refrigeration level cannot be done without the equipment. The knowledge of checking the working system is also important in maintaining the air-condition in good condition.
Can I do my own chemical flushing?
It is not advisable. Since there is a lot of dismantling to do, it is better to get a professional help. When chemical flushing is not done properly, several problems may occur.
Why must your company dismantle the fan coil unit for chemical service instead of inserting a water tray to wash away the chemical?
By dismantling the fan coil unit, we can clean the air condition’s individual components thoroughly with the alkaline-based chemical, without leaving behind chemical residue which may lead to the corrosion of the fan coil.
General
What is COP?
COP (Coefficient of Performance) indicates how efficiently the air conditioner uses energy. A higher COP means greater energy efficiency which will result in lower electricity consumption, hence saving money.
What is the recommended human comfort temperature setting?
Temperature setting depends on individual's comfort. The recommended temperature setting is 22 degrees to 24 degrees.
What will happen if I do not do any servicing?
The life span of the air conditioner will be shortened, cooling coil and rotor will be clogged and water leakage may occur. Thus, this will reduce the performance and cooling efficiency of the air conditioner.
Can I place an electrical appliance below the air conditioner?
It is not advisable to do so as:
a) Moisture in the air may condense and drip on the electrical appliance of the indoor unit.
b) Condensation may form at the piping connections during cooling operation at the outdoor unit.
Can I put flower pots on the outdoor unit?
No. Nothing should be put on top of the outdoor unit as this could pose inconvenience to the air conditioner servicemen. It also poses a danger to other residents as well.
If my room is exposed to direct sunlight, will it affect the selection of the air conditioning unit?
Yes. The cooling rate will be affected. However, you can choose to install a higher capacity air conditioning system for that particular room. Please refer to the installer for a suitable cooling capacity.
How do I apply for a permit from HDB to install an air conditioner?
Firstly, you must submit the floor plan of the house to the installer. They will submit the air conditioner catalogue, floor plan and application form to HDB for approval. Thereafter, you will receive a letter of permit from HDB.
What happens if the filter signs lights up and what is its function?
This shows that the air filter requires cleaning. The filter check indicator indicates an appropriate cleaning time, depending on the environment. This indicator acts as a reminder for users to clean the air filter. After cleaning, you need to reset by pressing the filter sign button on the remote controller to deactivate the red light.
Is every air conditioner model suitable for all types of housing i.e. 4-room flats, terrace houses, condominiums etc.?
No. It depends on your room size, usage, number of rooms, HDB requirements and your preferred temperature setting.
Can the air purifying filter be washed?
No, it has to be replaced every three months or whenever it turns dark. The air purifying filter is not reusable.
What is the purpose of an air purifying filter?
It helps to remove fine dust, pollen, tobacco smoke and odour in the room. Thus, it provides cleaner and fresher air for healthy living. It is commonly used by customers who are sensitive to dust.
What is the average life span of a residential air conditioner?
The average life span of an air conditioner is about six to seven years, but you can prolong the life span with proper maintenance by a qualified serviceman.
Product
What are the advantages of VRV?
VRV offers a wide capacity range, space savings, flexible design with a wide array of indoor units, easy installation with long piping length, quiet operation, optimal comfort and easy energy saving.
What is a VRV?
VRV stands for Variable Refrigerant Volume. It is widely used in high and low rise commercial buildings, residential houses, bungalows and semi-detached houses. As many as 16 fan coil units can be connected to a single outdoor unit.
What is a compressor?
A compressor is a motor inside the Condensing Unit (CU). It functions as a pump to circulate refrigerant in the air conditioning system.
What is an outdoor unit?
An outdoor unit is also known as Condensing Unit (CU). It is normally installed outdoor to discharge hot air.
What is an indoor unit?
An indoor unit is also known as Fan Coil Unit (FCU) or blower unit. It is installed in the room and produces cold air.
What is the difference between super-multi series and normal multi series?
Super-multi series system uses inverter technology whereby the compressor varies its frequency according to the load. This regulates the refrigerant to satisfy room cooling requirements and thus achieving the desired temperature with minimal fluctuations. Hence, its power consumption is less than normal multi series.
Where/who can I buy the air conditioners from?
You can purchase them from any of ourAuthorised Dealers.
Warranty
What does the warranty cover?
. General Warranty covers all parts of the equipment (excluding installation works installed at the premises). Replacements of all faulty parts are FREE OF CHARGE during the first (1st) year. Compressor Warranty covers ONLY the compressor itself. Replacement of faulty compressor is chargeable except within the first year of warranty as mentioned above. Labour and transportation charges apply.
Does the warranty period cover General Servicing and/or Chemical Flushing?
No. It is NOT covered during the warranty period. A servicing fee will be chargeable for any General Servicing or Chemical Flushing.
Under what conditions will the warranty end?
The warranty will end when:
a) The equipment is relocated to another premise.
b) The equipment is exported out of Singapore.
Under what conditions will the warranty be void?
The warranty will be void under the following conditions:
a) Tampering, alteration, modification, misuse and mishandling of the equipment.
b) Damage caused by defective wiring, incorrect voltage and fluctuations or interruptions in the electrical power supply.
c) Damage caused by natural calamities such as fire, lightning strike or flood, etc.
d) Equipment connected to other make or brand.
What is not being covered in the compressor warranty?
It does not cover labour and transportation, charging of refrigerant and other components within the refrigeration circuit.
Installation
Do I need to insulate both pipes?
Yes. Both the liquid and the gas pipes MUST be insulated to prevent water condensation from occurring.
How to ensure proper insulation during installation?
Additional insulation of thickness 10mm or more of glasswool or polyethylene foam is required under the following conditions:
a) When the temperature and humidity in the ceiling exceed 30 degrees and Relative Humidity (RH) 80%.
b) When the unit operates for 24 hours.
Is piping insulation important during installation?
If the piping installation is not sufficient, condensation may form on the surface on the insulation.
What are the common installation problems?
The common installation problems are:
a) water leaking
b) noisy units
c) wiring misconnection
Who can I contact for installation issues?
Please refer to your installer/contractor.
Where can I find reliable installer/contractor?
See the full listing of DaikinAuthorised Dealerson our Website.
Why do I need to install the drain tray?
Drain tray is installed so as to prevent condensation water from dripping. It is installed under the outdoor unit. The water is then channelled to the nearest toilet or floor trap via PVC piping.
Service & repair
How often should my air conditioner be chemical flushed?
When the cooling coil is badly choked and the cooling performance is deteriorating. The need to chemical flush would be best ascertained by a qualified air conditioner technician.
What does Chemical Flushing cover?
Chemical Flushing includes washing of the front panel (cover); air filter, drain pan & fan rotor with water, flushing it with chemical to penetrate and remove stubborn accumulated dust that inhibits in the cooling coil, clearing the drain pipe thoroughly, drying the components, and check the operating condition & temperature of the air conditioning system.
Can I do my own chemical flushing?
As chemical flushing is a complicated procedure which involves dismantling of the fan coil unit components, it is advisable to engage a qualified air conditioner technician to perform the job.