Renting a home in Singapore comes with its fair share of responsibilities, and one of the most important (yet often overlooked) tasks is air conditioning maintenance. Imagine coming home after a long, hot day, only to find your aircon struggling to keep up—that’s a scenario no tenant wants to face! Most landlords ensure that aircon units are in good condition before handing over the keys, but once you move in, the upkeep is usually on you. In fact, many lease agreements include a clause requiring tenants to service the aircon regularly and provide proof of maintenance.
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through your aircon servicing obligations, easy maintenance tips, and best practices to keep your unit running smoothly throughout your lease.
Understanding Aircon Servicing in Rental Agreements
In Singapore, it’s common for tenants to be responsible for aircon servicing, typically every three months. The good news? Many service providers offer affordable annual or biannual maintenance packages to help you stay on track.
If you’re moving into a newly built condo, you might even get free aircon servicing for a while—lucky you! Just be sure to confirm these details with your landlord before assuming you’re off the hook.
For serious repairs or part replacements that go beyond routine servicing, landlords usually cover the costs. How often your aircon needs servicing depends on the type of system in your home:
- Window Air Conditioners: Require annual maintenance
- Split Air Conditioners: Typically need servicing once a year
- Ducted Air Conditioning: Maintenance is recommended every 1-2 years
- Portable Air Conditioners: Filters should be cleaned or replaced regularly
- Central Air Conditioning: Requires servicing every 1-2 years
- Commercial HVAC Systems: Need more frequent maintenance, such as quarterly or semi-annual servicing
Essential Aircon Maintenance Tips for Tenants
Want to avoid sleepless, sweaty nights and expensive repairs? Here’s how to keep your aircon in top shape:
1. Clean the Air Filters Regularly
Think of air filters as the lungs of your aircon. When they get clogged with dust and dirt, airflow is restricted, making your unit work harder (and increasing your electricity bill). Cleaning or replacing filters regularly keeps your aircon efficient and your indoor air fresh. Check with your landlord about the recommended service schedule for filter changes.
2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Out of sight, out of mind? Not quite. The outdoor unit of your aircon needs some love, too! Clear away any leaves, dirt, or debris that could block airflow and reduce efficiency. A little effort here can go a long way in preventing costly issues down the line.
3. Inspect the Aircon Coils
Even with clean filters, aircon coils will collect dirt over time. This buildup reduces their ability to absorb heat, making your aircon struggle to cool your home. Professional servicing includes coil cleaning using a fin comb, which helps restore optimal performance, so it’s worth scheduling that regular check-up!
4. Check and Clean the Drain Channels
Blocked drain channels can lead to water leakage, which means potential damage to walls and floors (and an unhappy landlord). Professionals use a stiff wire to clear out clogs, ensuring proper drainage and preventing unwanted water damage.
5. Maintain Service Records
If your aircon suddenly stops working, having a record of maintenance can help resolve issues with your landlord faster. Keep a log of service dates, repairs, and any communication with your landlord regarding aircon performance. It’s always better to be prepared!
Schedule Professional Aircon Servicing
Regular professional servicing keeps your aircon in peak condition and ensures a cool, comfortable living space. Fixlaa offers hassle-free aircon maintenance services, including deep cleaning, filter replacement, and performance checks. With flexible service plans, Fixlaa helps tenants stay on top of their maintenance obligations while keeping their homes refreshingly cool.
Don’t wait until your aircon gives up on you—book a service with Fixlaa today and enjoy uninterrupted comfort in your rental home!