A leaking aircon in Singapore can be more than an annoyance especially with the hot and humid weather. When should you call the aircon technicians and what can you do yourself?
A) Simple DIY Checks You Can Do
Before you call for backup, there are a couple of simple things you can check yourself. But first, SAFETY! Always turn off the power to your aircon unit at the main switch or circuit breaker before you open anything up or start poking around.
1. Check the Air Filter
This is the easiest and most common DIY fix.
- Locate the filter (usually behind the front panel of the indoor unit).
- Slide it out and hold it up to the light. Can you see light through it? If it’s coated in grey fuzz, it’s dirty.
- Most filters can be washed gently with mild soap and lukewarm water. Rinse it thoroughly and let it air dry completely before putting it back. Some filters are disposable and need replacing.
2. Inspect the Drain Pipe Outlet
The drain pipe of an aircon is a small pipe connected to your aircon that carries away the water that’s formed when your aircon removes humidity from the air.
- Find where the drain pipe exits (usually a small PVC pipe sticking out of a wall). This can be outside your house or inside your toilet (e.g. HDB flats).
- When the aircon is running (turn the power back on briefly for this check if needed, then off again before touching anything), see if water is dripping out steadily.
- Check if the very end of the pipe is blocked by leaves, dirt, or an insect nest. You can gently clear any visible blockage from the opening.
3. Look at the Drain Pan (If Easily Visible)
If you can easily see the drain pan under the indoor unit, check if it’s full of water (which indicates a clog further down the line ) or if you can see any obvious cracks or rust. Don’t try to force anything if it’s hard to access.
4. A Gentle Drain Clear Attempt (Optional & Use Caution!)
- If you have a wet/dry vacuum, you can try carefully placing the hose over the outside end of the drain pipe and using suction to pull out any blockage.
- Be very careful: Don’t poke anything sharp or stiff deep into the pipe, as you could damage it. Avoid using harsh drain-clearing chemicals unless specifically recommended by a professional. Some guides mention pouring a vinegar/water solution into the drain pan or access point , but only do this if it’s easily accessible and you’re comfortable doing so – check your manual first.
These DIY steps focus on the most common and accessible issues. If these don’t solve the leak, or if the problem seems more complicated, it’s time to call in the experts.
B) Time to Call the Pros: When to Get Expert Help
Don’t hesitate to call a qualified aircon technician if:
- You’ve cleaned the filter and checked the drain outlet, but the leak continues.
- You suspect a refrigerant leak (hissing sounds, the aircon isn’t cooling)
- You see significant ice forming on the coils.
- You’re having electrical issues, like the breaker tripping.
- You can see the drain pan is cracked or badly rusted.
- The aircon is making loud or unusual noises along with the leak.
- You’re simply not comfortable doing the DIY checks yourself.
When choosing a service provider, remember to look for reputable companies with experienced and certified technicians. Check out the best-rated aircon service companies in Singapore.
Final Thoughts
The absolute best way to prevent leaks (and many other aircon problems) is regular professional servicing. Think of it like a health check-up for your aircon!
Especially in Singapore’s demanding climate, experts often recommend servicing your aircon every 6 months, or at least once a year. If you use your aircon heavily, more frequent servicing might be beneficial.
