Normal vs Chemical Aircon Servicing – Which One Do You Need in Singapore?

If you’re booking aircon servicing and unsure whether to go for a normal cleaning or a chemical wash, you’re not alone. Many homeowners in Singapore don’t know the difference. This guide explains both types of aircon cleaning services so you can make the right choice.

Before and after cleaning: A dirty evaporator coil on the left and a clean coil on the right after chemical aircon servicing

What Is Normal Aircon Servicing?

Normal aircon servicing is the basic maintenance you should do every 3 to 6 months. It keeps your unit clean and running smoothly.

What it includes:

• Cleaning the air filters

• Vacuuming the drainage pipe

• Wiping the evaporator coil surface

• Checking gas levels and overall performance

Best for:

• Regular maintenance

• Light to moderate aircon usage

• Units with no major cooling issues

What Is Chemical Aircon Cleaning?

Chemical aircon cleaning is a deeper process. It’s for aircons that are not cold, leaking, smelly, or making noise. The unit is partially dismantled, and parts are cleaned using a chemical solution to remove hardened dirt and mould.

What it includes:

• Dismantling the fan coil unit

• Cleaning internal parts (evaporator coil, blower wheel, fan blade)

• Flushing the drainage pipe

• Applying chemical solution to remove build-up

• Reassembling and testing the unit

Best for:

• Older or heavily used units

• Aircons with persistent odours or leaks

• Cases where normal servicing doesn't help

What About Chemical Overhaul?

A chemical overhaul goes even deeper than chemical cleaning. The entire indoor unit is dismantled and each part is cleaned individually. It’s done only when there’s serious blockage or poor performance despite prior servicing.

You don’t need this often – maybe once every 6–18 months.

A technician sprays chemical solution on aircon parts during an outdoor cleaning session, showing the deep cleaning process in progress

Normal vs Chemical Wash – Quick Comparison

Feature	Normal Servicing	Chemical Cleaning
Frequency	Every 3–6 months	Every 6–18 months
Cost	Lower	Higher
Dismantling required	No	Yes
Cleaning method	Basic wipe/vacuum	Chemical solution
Use case	Regular upkeep	Cooling/smell issues
Duration	30–45 mins	60–90 mins

How to Know Which One You Need

Choose normal servicing if:

• Your aircon is cooling well

• You service it regularly

• There are no smells or leaks

Choose chemical cleaning if:

• Your aircon is not cold

• It smells musty or leaks water

• You haven’t serviced it in over 6 months

Why It Matters

Using the wrong type of servicing can waste money or damage your unit. For example, chemical washes done too often can wear out the parts. On the other hand, neglecting deep cleaning can reduce cooling and increase electricity bills.

FAQ

Q1: Is chemical cleaning safe for all aircon types?

Yes, when done properly by a trained technician.

Q2: Can I do normal cleaning myself?

You can clean the filters, but internal parts require a professional.

Q3: How long does chemical cleaning take?

Usually 60–90 minutes per unit.

Q4: Does chemical cleaning damage the aircon?

No, unless done too often or by untrained workers.

Q5: Is it worth the higher price?

Yes, if your unit is underperforming. It restores cooling efficiency.

Not sure which service your aircon needs? Contact Sky Blue Aircon Engineering Pte Ltd for honest advice and professional servicing.