The weather in Singapore is hot and humid throughout the year. For businesses, a commercial aircon system is not only a convenience, it is a requirement. Aircons help the staffs be productive, keeps customers at ease, and protect heat-sensitive devices. When businesses install an aircon for the first time, it can be a lot of work. Let’s learn everything necessary regarding commercial aircon system installation in Singapore, right from selecting a system to avoiding common installation mistakes.
Types of Commercial Aircon Installation
There are a few types of aircons available in Singapore for commercial use. Below are the options:
Split System Aircon
For small commercial areas like a boutique store with one or two rooms, a small café or office, installing Split System Aircon can be the way to go. It consists of one indoor unit and outdoor compressor and provides a lower cost option with relatively reliable cooling. It’s important to note that this system will not meet the cooling requirements of larger areas.
Multi-Split System
Multi-split systems are great for medium commercial spaces with several rooms or areas. In these systems, more than one indoor unit can be connected to a single outdoor unit. While the installation process is a bit difficult, it is a great option for commercial spaces that do not want a more complex aircon setup such as VRF or duct system.
VRV/VRF Systems
VRV, or more commonly known as VARIBLE REFRIGERANT VOLUME/VRF, is an advanced aircon technology used for big commercial buildings. It is suitable for hotels, hospitals or similar spaces where many rooms needs to be cooled. This system provides specific temperature regulation for different areas or zones. Even though the system can be costly to set up, the performance obtained in return is beneficial for the long-term investment. It is also best suited for office towers and malls.
Centralized Aircon
This type of air conditioning is suitable for very large buildings. Centralized air conditioning cools the entire building using one of the ducts connected to a central unit. This system is also referred to as ducted system. This system is better for internal appearance of the commercial complex. It is ideal for commercial buildings, however, they have a high price for installation and constant upkeep is required.
Cost of Commercial Aircon Installation in Singapore
Let’s first know the factors that may influence the cost of installation.
Factors Influencing the Installation Cost
Type of System Chosen
The choice of aircon system has a huge impact on the final cost of installation. Split systems are the most basic aircon type, and hence the cheapest. VRV and centralized systems are more sophisticated and hence, more expensive. Labor, installation parts, and after sales service cost is higher for VRV and central aircons.
Size of the Premises
The larger your commercial space, the greater number of aircon units or cooling capacity you will require. This, in turn, increases the equipment and installation costs. Larger spaces also may need ductwork or additional piping. It increases the materials and labor costs.
Complexity of Installation
If your space has higher ceilings, limited access, or a complex layout, then installation becomes more challenging. Therefore, the cost of installation increases.
Brand and Model
The prices of the different brands of air conditioners vary. Premium brands are usually pricier because they offer enhanced energy efficiency, smart technologies, and extended warranties.
Commercial Aircon Installation Cost Breakdown
Below is the detail breakdown of commercial aircon installation cost in Singapore.
Basic Installation Cost
Commercial aircon installation costs in Singapore can start from around SGD 2,000 for small setups and go over SGD 20,000 for large-scale projects. The cost includes aircon units, labor, mounting accessories, and basic electrical work. Larger buildings or more advanced systems like VRF require higher investment due to more complex installation work.
Additional Charges
Based on the property condition, additional cost may apply during the installation. For example, you might need ceiling modifications, wall reinforcements, or longer piping. Night or weekend installations may also cost more. If your building has limited access, installation may take longer, increasing labor charges.
Maintenance Contract
Many companies offer optional maintenance contracts, which involve regular checks, cleaning, and servicing. These help extend the life of your aircon and keep it working efficiently. Although it adds to your total cost, regular servicing prevents expensive repairs later. Some maintenance packages also include emergency support and discounts on spare parts.
Understand The Required Cooling Capacity ( BTU’s)
Before installation, you need to estimate the required capacity of the aircon unit for the commercial space in BTU.
What does BTU mean?
British Thermal Unit or BTU relates to the amount of heat cooled off in one hour. If you choose aircon with a low BTU, it will not cool down properly. Whereas, high BTU cases can waste energy and wear off the system quickly.
Estimating BTU for Commercial Spaces.
To calculate the correct BTU requirement, calculate the space size in square feet. A general rule is that, you need 20 BTU per square foot. For example, for a 1000 square feet area, the BTU requirement is 2000. But for commercial spaces, factors like ceiling height, sunlight exposure, number of people, and electronic equipment in the space must also be considered. Consult with HVAC professional to calculate your BTU needs accurately.
Hiring a Professional Installer
Hiring a professional aircon installation contractor is a crucial step in the process.
Check their experience
Hiring an experienced installer means they will install the aircon smoothly. They will correctly evaluate your space, recommend the right aircon, and perform proper installation. Inexperienced installers may make costly mistakes. Always check how long the company has been in business and what types of projects they’ve handled before.
Check for BCA licensing
In Singapore, commercial aircon installers are required to register with the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). This certification confirms that quality standards are maintained. Hiring licensed contractors gives you legal protection if anything go wrong.
Ask for references
References are a good way to check an installer’s reputation. Request them to provide documents of previous similar projects. Searching the internet is also an option for finding testimonials. Happy clients are the best advertisement a business can have and good installers will must have satisfied customers.
Commercial Aircon Installation Process
Below are a few basic steps to install commercial aircon.
Site Inspection
The first step is a thorough site inspection. A technician will visit your business to assess the space, ceiling height, window placement, and existing electrical systems. This helps them understand what type and how many aircon units are required. Proper inspection helps avoid issues later and ensures the system fits your actual cooling needs.
System Recommendation and Quotation
Based on the inspection, the installer will suggest the most suitable system for your business. You’ll receive a detailed quotation covering equipment, labor, materials, and optional services like maintenance packages. It’s important to review the quote carefully and ask questions to ensure you understand what you’re paying for before work begins.
Installation Work
Once agreed, the team will start installation. This involves mounting the indoor units, setting up the outdoor compressors, and running necessary piping and electrical connections. Good installers will work neatly and follow safety rules. They may also test the aircon after setup to check for leaks or issues before handing it over.
Final Testing and Handover
After everything is installed, a final test is done to make sure the system runs smoothly. The installer will demonstrate how to use the controls, set temperatures, and maintain the system. You’ll also get warranty documents and service contact info. This handover ensures you are ready to operate the system confidently.
Commercial Aircon Installation Legal and Safety Requirements
Compliance with Singapore Standards
All commercial aircon systems must follow Singapore’s strict building and electrical standards. Installers must use certified parts and follow specific codes during setup. Non-compliance can result in penalties or being forced to redo the installation. Therefore, always choose compliant systems and licensed professionals.
BCA and NEA Guidelines
The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the National Environment Agency (NEA) set rules for safe and eco-friendly aircon installation. This includes proper handling of refrigerants, safe disposal of old units, and using energy-efficient models. Installers must register their work and use only licensed technicians for specific parts of the job.
Fire Safety Regulations
Air conditioning systems must meet fire safety rules, especially in high-rise or densely packed buildings. Improper installation of ducting or wiring can pose fire hazards. Installers must ensure all work is safe and approved by fire authorities if needed. Always check that your system complies with SCDF (Singapore Civil Defence Force) requirements.
Common Commercial Aircon Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Below are the common mistakes to avoid during installing commercial aircon:
Wrong Size Aircon
Installing a system with the wrong BTU rating can cause poor performance. A unit that’s too small won’t cool the space effectively. A unit that’s too big can lead to high energy bills and short cycling.
Poor Placement of Units
Where you place the indoor and outdoor units can also affect performance. Placing an indoor unit near heat sources or a blocked outdoor unit can reduce airflow and increase power consumption.
Ignoring Maintenance
Many businesses do not care about regular servicing once installation is done. This causes dust buildup, reduced efficiency, and sudden breakdowns. Follow the instruction of the aircon manufacturer and service your aircon regularly.
Choosing the Cheapest Option
Going with the lowest quote may seem cost-effective but often leads to problems. Cheap installers might use low-quality materials, rush the job, or skip important steps. Always prefer a better value for money. Try to investigate what’s included in the service to judge the value of the service.
Installing Wrong Type of Aircon
A common mistake during the installation process is not choosing the right type of aircon. For cooling a smaller commercial space, you do not need to install a VRF system. On the other hand, cooling a few rooms may need a system 3 or system 4 aircon but you may wrongly choose multiple single split aircons.
FAQ
How long does a commercial aircon installation take?
It usually takes 1 to 7 days depending on the system type, size of the premises, and installation complexity. Larger setups require more time for piping or ductworks and hence, require more time.
Do I need to shut down my business during installation?
Not always. Some installations can be done after business hours or on weekends. However, for safety and quicker installation work, partial closure of the business is recommended.
How often should I service my commercial aircon?
It’s best to service your commercial aircon every 3 to 6 months.
Can I use a residential unit in my office?
It’s not recommended. Residential units are not designed for the long hours and heavy loads of commercial use. They may fail faster and won’t cool large areas effectively.
Are there any government rebates in Singapore for commercial aircons?
Yes, Singapore offers rebates for businesses that choose energy-efficient systems under certain green building programs.
Conclusion
Commercial aircon installation is a big decision. This can affect your comfort, energy bills, and even business operations. Choosing the right system, hiring a professional installer, and following legal requirements – all help ensure a smooth installation experience. Take the time to plan properly, avoid common mistakes, and invest in quality aircon system.
