Split aircon systems improve the convenience and comfort of the environments where people live or work. These systems are famous for their efficiency. They operate quietly and have a good aesthetic design. However, installation planning and perfect execution are essential for performance and increased life span of split systems. Let’s walk through the steps of installing a split AC, important factors, and tools needed during the process.
Getting Familiar with Split Air Conditioners
A split air conditioner has two main components:
- Indoor Unit (Evaporator): It is installed and placed inside the room. It blows cooled air inside the space.
- Outdoor Unit (Condenser): It is located outside the building and the hot air collected from the room is released from this unit.
The control for the airflow between these two units is maintained by the refrigerant piping and the electrical wiring.
Split Aircon Installation Cost in Singapore
The installation cost of a single split air conditioner with a capacity between 9,000 and 12,000 BTU is normally priced between SGD 300 and SGD 500 in Singapore. This price applies to simple installations that have existing piping and trunking systems. This price usually covers the cost of the split system installation, basic electrical works, and vacuum tests.
Cost of Multi Split System Installation
If the setup is for a multi split system such as a system 3 aircon that has one outdoor unit and three indoor units, the pricing changes drastically. In this case the installation cost of the system can rise from SGD 800 to over SGD 1,500 based on the complexity of the work, the distance between indoor units and how much extra material is required.
Cost of Additional Piping and Trunking
In the event new copper piping, and PVC trunking is needed, specially for homes that have never had an air conditioning unit, there are additional costs. The average price for copper piping ranges from SGD 35 to 50 SGD per meter in Singapore. The price largely depends on the quality of the materials.
Optional Costs: Removal and Electrical Work
The cost for the removal of old units may not be included in the basic installation cost. Most installers charge between SGD 50 to SGD 150 for this service per unit. Moreover, extra costs can be incurred depending on the electrician’s charges and any additional work involved.
Package Deals for Unit + Installation
In Singapore, there are suppliers who sell aircon units with installation services as a package. They also cover all the necessary equipment for the installation. The starting price of these offers is around SGD 1,000 to SGD 2,500 dollars, depending on the features like number of indoor units, brand selected, and other factors.
Surveying the site beforehand
To offer you the best quote during aircon replacement and piping installation, and cost estimation, aircon servicing companies perform free site visits. For such site visits, company technicians come to your premises and examine the house layout visually.
Pre-Installation Considerations
A proper plan is crucial before installation work. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Section the Appropriate AC Capacity
As a rule of thumb, below is the aircon capacity to consider according to the room size:
| Room Size (sq ft) | Recommended BTU |
| Up to 150 | 5,000 – 6,000 |
| 150 – 250 | 6,000 – 8,000 |
| 250 – 400 | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| 400 – 600 | 12,000 – 18,000 |
Note: Room occupancy and local climate can change the required capacity.
2. Choosing the Best Position for the Units
Indoor Unit:
- Height: A distance of 7-8 ft above the floor for effective cooling.
- No Direct Sunlight: Sunlight in the room can affect AC’s performance.
- Clearance: Ensure unobstructed airflow.
- Accessibility: Maintenance and cleaning should be easily achievable.
Outdoor Unit:
- Ventilation: Set near a well ventilated area.
- Surface: Place on level surfaces to reduce vibrations.
- Protection: Direct rainfall and harsh sunlight can affect the lifespan of the unit.
- Proximity: It should be placed no more than 15 feet away from the indoor unit.
3. Plan the Route of the Piping
Minimize the distance between indoor and outdoor units to increase the efficiency. Work out a plan with minimum bends and avoid obstacles like walls. Make sure the pipes are properly insulated and protected.
Essential Tools and Materials
Below are the tools and material needed for installing a split aircon:
Tools:
- Drilling machine with suitable bits
- Level
- Vacuum pump
- Adjustable wrenches
- Pipe cutter
- Flaring tool
- Torque wrench
- Manifold gauge set
- Electrical tester
- Hole saw (for wall penetration)
Materials:
- Mounting brackets and hardware
- Copper refrigerant pipes
- Electrical wires and conduit
- Drain hose
- Insulation materials
- Wall sleeve (for pipe passage)
- Weatherproof sealant
Step by Step Installation process
Below is the step by step process of installing a split aircon:
Step 1: Choosing the Right Location
As for any installation, the first step is choosing the most suitable location for the indoor as well as the outdoor unit. The indoor unit is recommended to be positioned at a higher wall to ensure the cool air circulates sufficiency to the unit. Heat sources, sunlight, and any furniture should not be near the indoor unit. Open and highly ventilated areas are most suitable for the outdoor unit. The outdoor should also be mounted onto a sturdy base or wall bracket. Shelter the unit a bit from direct rain and very harsh sunlight to ensure the unit function optimally.
Step 2: Putting the Mounting Plate in Place
After choosing the location, fix the mounting plate on the wall where the indoor unit will be hanging. The plate should be perfectly level to avoid any water leakage issue. The technician marks the screw locations and also drills the wall to secure the plate in a tight position. This plate act as the foundation where the indoor unit will be installed.
Step 3: Drilling the Wall Hole
After placing the mounting plate, a hole is drilled through the wall to connect the indoor and outdoor units. The hole is approximately 3 inches in diameter and allows the copper pipes, electrical wires, and also the drain hose to pass. The slope of the hole is slightly downward to ensure a smooth draining process.
Step 4: Mounting the Indoor Unit
Now you can mount the indoor unit. The back of the unit needs to be connected with copper pipes, drain hose, and electrical cables. Then the unit can be mounted. After everything is set, the unit is secured at the top with the mounting plate.
Step 5: Set Up the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit should be positioned on a concrete pad or wall bracket. In order to reduce noise and vibration, the unit is placed on anti-vibration pads. There should be enough space around it for ventilation. After getting the location right, the outdoor unit is secured properly to avoid moving during operation.
Step 6: Attaching and Connecting Electrical Components
The indoor unit’s drain hose, electrical wiring, and copper refrigerant pipes are now connected to the outdoor unit. The technician makes sure all fittings are tight and properly insulated. Connecting and sealing these pipes properly is essential to ensure refrigerant flow between the two units.
Step 7: Removing Air from the Refrigerant Lines
Before releasing refrigerant, air and moisture must first be removed from the copper pipes using a vacuum pump. The system’s performance and even the compressor can be impacted when a small amount of air or water vapor is present inside the pipe. The technician attaches the pump to the service port, operates it until the lines are fully evacuated. Then he closes the port tightly.
Step 8: Releasing the Refrigerant
After completing the vacuuming process, the valves located at the outdoor unit are opened for the refrigerant to flow into the system. The technician is very careful at this stage to monitor the flow of refrigerant for leaks and proper circulation. This gets the unit ready to be used.
Step 9: Testing the System
When all the connections are established and the refrigerant is flowing, the system is switched on for a dry run. The technician checks the airflow, the speed, how quickly the system cools, the set temperature, and any strange noises. He also checks that the hose used for removing water is correctly positioned for the water to drain and the unit outside has no problems functioning.
Step 10: Finishing Touches
After verifying that the system functions properly, he caps the wall hole with weather-resistant putty or foam to stop the ingress of dust, water, or insects and seal the system from the external environment. The refrigerant pipes and wires are arranged in order and fixed with ducting or clips along the wall. This eliminates mess and provides a tidy and professional appearance to the installation.
Post-Installation Best Practices
Seal Gaps:
After the cabling and piping have been run through ad walls, seal the rough hole using expanding foam or a weather-proof sealant. This ensures insulation of the room and restricting entry into the room from insects, moisture and dust.
Fasten Cables and Pipes:
Fasten the electrical wires, drain hose, and copper pipes along the wall with ducting, cable ties or clamps. This protects exposure to the weather, accidental harm, and makes the installation look professional.
Product Warranty Registration:
Don’t forget to register the product so the warranty gets activated with the manufacturer after the installation is complete and the unit is operating well. This guarantees cover for future repairs or technical matter you may have in the future.
Split Aircon Installation Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even experienced technicians can sometimes make mistakes. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid during split aircon installation:
Improper Placement Of The Indoor Unit:
Performance of cooling is likely to get impacted when the indoor unit is installed too close to the ceiling or near a heat source. Always ensure the indoor unit has enough clearance.
Poor Drainage Design:
Blocked or poorly sloped drain pipes can be the source of water dripping inside the room. Make sure that the hose has a constant gradient in the downward direction.
Excessive Pipe Length:
The efficiency of the system may decrease and energy usage may increase with longer refrigerant piping. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended pipe length.
Not Following The Vacuum Steps:
Some installers may skip vacuuming the refrigerant lines. It can lead to moisture and air inside the system. This reduces performance and may damage the compressor over time.
Inaccurate Wiring:
Wiring mistakes can lead to internal damage and fire hazard. Never power on the unit without following the wiring diagram given by the AC manufacturer.
Installation Safety Measures
Safety should always be a top priority during installation. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a certified technician, follow these precautions:
- Turn off the power before starting work
- Use tools that are insulated to avoid shocks.
- Using Dangerous Installation Locations Should Be Avoided.
- Gloves, glasses and shoes all need to be worn before dealing with the aircon parts.
- Always put on gloves when dealing with refrigerants.
Post installation maintenance
Proper maintenance after installation keeps your AC running smoothly. Below are a few maintenance tips:
- Cleaning of air filters at least every month: Dirty filters lowers airflow as well as cooling speeds.
- Examine the outdoor units: Check for any obstructing leaves or debris that may block airflow around the condenser.
- Ensure that the AC isn’t leaking refrigerant: If the performance of the unit drops, call a technician to scan for possible leaks.
- Set up yearly servicing schedule: Annual maintenance by professionals includes coil cleaning, refrigerant level checks, and performance tuning.
Environmental Considerations
Look for high SEER rated and energy star certified models as they are energy efficient. Opt for environmentally friendly refrigerants, for example, R32 and R410A. They do less damage to the ozone layer than older refrigerants such as R22. Although, R22 has already been banned in Singapore.
When getting rid of an old AC unit, make sure the refrigerant is recovered and not vented to the atmosphere.
Conclusion
Installing a split air conditioner isn’t just about mounting a couple of units and connecting a few pipes. It’s a technical process that requires planning, careful execution, and regular maintenance. Proper installation will ensure the system performs perfectly for many.
