A chemical wash involves thoroughly cleaning the aircon unit using chemical-based solutions. Unlike regular aircon servicing, which typically involves simple cleaning of the filters and external parts, a chemical wash penetrates deeper. It removes accumulated dirt, bacteria, mold, and other particles from the internal components, including coils and fans.
So, how do you know if your aircon has moved beyond needing just a general service and is calling out for a chemical wash?
Signs Your Aircon Need A Chemical Wash
- Weak Airflow or Poor Cooling: The most common sign. If your room takes much longer to cool down or the air coming out just doesn’t feel cold enough, dirty coils are a likely culprit.
- Musty or Foul Odours: That damp, mouldy smell is a dead giveaway that there’s biological growth (mould, mildew, bacteria) inside your unit that needs to be eliminated.
- Water Leaks: If you notice water dripping from the indoor unit, it often means the drainage pipe is clogged with slime and debris. A chemical wash flushes this out.
- Unusual Noises: Rattling, buzzing, or grinding sounds can sometimes be caused by dirt accumulation or loose parts that a thorough cleaning and check might address.
- Rising Electricity Bills: If your bills are creeping up without a change in your usage habits, your aircon might be working overtime due to inefficiency caused by internal dirt.
- Visible Dirt or Mould: If you can peek inside (e.g., through the vents) and see significant dust buildup or black spots (mould) on the blower fan or coils, it definitely needs a deep clean.
- It’s Been A Long Time: If it’s been over a year (or even two) since your last deep clean, especially if you use your aircon frequently, it’s probably due for a chemical wash as preventive maintenance.
How Often Does Your Aircon Need A Chemical Wash?
While general advice suggests a chemical wash annually or biannually , pay closest attention to the signs. Heavy usage (running it all day) or placement in dustier or more humid parts of the home might necessitate more frequent deep cleaning, perhaps every 6-9 months.
If you notice multiple signs occurring together (e.g. weak cooling AND a bad smell), it’s a strong indicator that a chemical wash is needed rather than just general servicing.
How To Choose a Good Aircon Company
Choosing a reliable and experienced aircon servicing company is vital to ensure the chemical wash is done effectively and safely, without damaging your aircon.
What to Look For:
- Experience and Reputation: Opt for companies that have been around for a while and have a solid track record. Check online reviews (Google, Facebook etc.), but also ask friends, family, or neighbours for recommendations.
- Licensed and Trained Technicians: Ensure the company is properly licensed and that their technicians are trained and certified, especially in handling the specific chemicals used for washing.
- Transparency: A good company should be upfront about their process and costs. Ask them:
- What specific parts are included in their chemical wash?
- What type of chemicals do they use? Are they safe for your aircon model?
- Can they provide a clear, itemised quote? What are potential extra charges (e.g., refrigerant top-up, replacement parts if an overhaul is needed)?
- Workmanship Warranty: Check if they offer a warranty on their work, covering potential issues that might arise shortly after the service.
Red Flags to Watch Out For:
- Unbelievably Cheap Prices: Extremely low prices might indicate corners being cut, usage of overly harsh or inappropriate chemicals, or it could be a bait-and-switch tactic to upsell you later.
- Middlemen Companies: Some online platforms might just be booking agents who outsource the job to third-party contractors of varying quality. Try to engage companies with their own in-house, trained technicians.
- Immediate Push for Overhaul: Be cautious if a company insists on a chemical overhaul without a thorough inspection or clear explanation based on the signs your aircon is showing. Since an overhaul is more expensive and targets repairs , ensure they justify why a standard chemical wash isn’t sufficient for your situation. Ask questions!
Final Thoughts
An aircon chemical wash can be a really effective way to give your hardworking air conditioner a new lease on life, especially here in humid Singapore. However, it’s not a magic bullet needed every few months for every aircon. Not to mention it comes at a higher cost than general servicing.
The best approach? Pay attention to your aircon. If it’s showing signs like weak cooling, strange smells, or leaks, a chemical wash is likely worth considering.
Invest time in finding a reputable, experienced, and transparent aircon servicing company. A properly performed chemical wash by a trusted professional can help you and your family stay cool and breathe easier for a long time to come.
