Singapore is hot and humid all year round. So, having a good aircon in your condo is not just a luxury — it’s a must. But installing an aircon in a condominium is not as easy as in a landed home. You need to follow condo rules, find the right system, and get a licensed installer. Let’s explains everything you need to know about installing aircon in a Singapore condo.
Why Condo Aircon Installation Is Different in Singapore
In Singapore, condos have their own sets of rules. These rules are set by the MCST (Management Corporation Strata Title).
Before you install anything, you must get approval from the condo’s managing agent or MCST. Each condo has its own by-laws. These often control:
- Where you can place the outdoor unit
- Which installers are allowed to do the job
- What kind of systems you can use
- Installation timing (usually 9am–5pm on weekdays only)
If you install aircon without getting permission, you may face penalties or be asked to remove the unit.
Types of Aircon Suitable for Condos
Singapore homes usually go for split-type systems. But not all aircons are allowed in condos. Here’s a look at common types:
1. System 1 (Single Split)
System 1 aircon is good for studio or 1-bedroom units. Here, one indoor unit connects to one outdoor unit.
2. System 2 to System 4
These are multi-split systems. They connect two to four indoor units to one outdoor unit. Popular for 2- to 4-bedroom condos in Singapore.
3. VRV/VRF Systems
VRF aircon systems are more common in larger units or high-end condos. These are powerful and energy-saving but more expensive.
4. Portable Aircon
If your condo does not allow drilling or outdoor units, you may use a portable aircon. No permanent setup is needed for these aircons, but they are not as effective.
5. Window/ Casement Aircon
Casement aircons are rare in condos as many don’t allow them. They are noisy and may not fit the condo’s design.
What to Check Before Aircon Installation in A Condo
1. Approval from MCST
Always check with your MCST. Ask about:
- Maximum BTU allowed
- Pipe routing rules
- Approved outdoor unit placement
- Any preferred contractor list
Get written approval before you start.
2. Check Your Electrical Load
Older condos may not support high-capacity aircons. Ask your electrician or installer to confirm your electrical load.
3. Size of Unit (BTU)
Singapore’s weather require powerful aircon due to the humid weather conditions. So, choose an aircon with the right BTU rating for your room size:
Room Size BTU Recommendation
| Room Size (square feet) | Recommended BTU |
| Up to 150 sq ft | 6,000 BTU |
| 150 – 250 sq ft | 9,000 BTU |
| 250 – 350 sq ft | 12,000 BTU |
| 350 – 450 sq ft | 18,000 BTU |
| 450 – 650 sq ft | 24,000 BTU |
Follow this chart to choose the right aircon as per room size.
Installation Process in Singapore Condos
Once you’ve chosen your aircon, here’s what to expect:
1. Site Survey
The installer visits your home to inspect the site. They look at:
- Power source
- Piping route
- Drainage outlet
- Outdoor unit location
2. Submit Application to MCST
Installers may help you submit documents like:
- Installation layout
- Aircon model and specs
- NEA (National Environment Agency) licence number
You’ll need approval before work starts.
3. Actual Installation
Aircon installation time for wall mount aircons is usually between 4–8 hours. Here’s the general flow:
- Mounting indoor units
- Laying trunking and piping
- Setting up outdoor unit (usually on the AC ledge)
- Vacuum test to check for leaks
- Powering on and testing the system
Installers will usually patch the wall and clean up afterward.
How Much Does It Cost?
Here’s a rough estimation of aircon installation prices in Singapore:
System Type Estimated Cost (SGD)
- System 1 – SG$1,050–1,700
- System 2 – SG$1,900–2,550
- System 3 – SG$2,700–3,600
- System 4 – SG$4,100–5,500
- Ceiling cassette – SG$2,450–3,850
- VRF system – SG$22,000–60,000
Prices include installation, materials, and warranty. It may cost more if trunking is longer or harder to install.
What Affects Aircon Installation Cost?
The total cost will vary depending on various factors including:
- Pipe length
- The capacity of the aircon ( More BTU costs more)
- Energy efficiency rating of the aircon
- Special features of the system ( such as inverter technology)
- Type of piping material (better ones last longer)
- Number of bends or walls to drill through
- Floor level (higher floors may have extra charges)
- Brand and model of the aircon
Popular aircon brands in Singapore include Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, and Midea.
NEA and Energy Label Requirements
Singapore’s NEA rates aircons with a 5-tick energy label system. The more ticks, the more energy-efficient the unit.
A 5-tick unit may cost more but saves electricity over time. This is important since electricity rates in Singapore can be high.
Maintenance After Installation
After installation is done, it’s time to schedule for regular maintenance and servicing. Regular servicing helps your aircon work well and last longer. Dirty filters can cause weak cooling and bad gas like smell from aircon.
Recommended aircon servicing frequency in Singapore:
- General servicing every 3–6 months
- Chemical wash once a year for older units
- Aircon gas top-up if cooling gets weak
Many companies offer maintenance packages. These are good if you want to save on long-term care.
Common Problems During Condo Aircon Installation
Below are a few problems that you may face during the installation:
1. Rejection by MCST
This happens if you don’t follow rules or submit the wrong forms.
2. Drainage Problems
Water must drain into a proper outlet. Wrong setup causes water leaks by the aircon or stains on walls.
3. Too Much Noise
Choose a quiet model (below 40 dB). Vibrations can disturb neighbours.
4. Unsightly Trunking
Discuss with your installer how to hide trunking neatly. Some homeowners choose box-up or false ceiling to hide it.
Choosing a Good Condo Aircon Installer in Singapore
Below are a few tips on how to find a good installer for your condo aircon:
Look for:
- BCA or NEA-licensed installers
- Good reviews on Google or Facebook
- Experience with condo jobs
- Warranty on both product and workmanship
- Clear pricing with no hidden fees
Always get a written quote before work begins.
FAQ
Can I install any brand of aircon in my condo?
Not always. Some condos only approve specific models that match the building’s design or noise limits. Check with your MCST.
How long does condo aircon installation take?
Usually 4 to 8 hours for wall mounted systems. Bigger systems or complex jobs may take longer.
What if my condo doesn’t allow outdoor units?
You may have to use a portable aircon. Another option is to install a shared condenser system (only in some buildings).
Do I need to be at home?
Yes. Installers need access to rooms, circuit breakers, and drainage points. Make sure someone is home.
How long is the warranty?
Most brands offer 1-year warranty on parts and 5–6 years on the compressor. Installation warranty depends on the company — usually 1 year.
Final Tips
- Always get written MCST approval
- Choose a quiet and energy-efficient model
- Hire licensed and experienced installers
- Plan installation at least 1–2 weeks in advance
- Schedule regular servicing after installation
