System 2 aircon is a common air conditioning setup used in homes and small offices. Here, one outdoor unit is connected to two indoor units and it supports with necessary power required for cooling two individual spaces. This type of system is often found in HDB flats, apartments, and condos in countries like Singapore and Malaysia. System 2 aircons are suitable for people who want to cool two rooms at the same time without installing two outdoor compressors. In this guide, we’ll explain what a system 2 aircon is, how it works, its cost, preferred brands and some other basics of this type of aircon system.
Before we start, for ease of your understanding, please always keep in mind:
- Sytem 1 aircon = 1 indoor + 1 outdoor unit
- Sytem 2 aircon = 2 indoor + 1 outdoor unit
- Sytem 3 aircon = 3 indoor + 1 outdoor unit
- Sytem 4 aircon = 4 indoor + 1 outdoor unit
- Sytem 5 aircon = 5 indoor + 1 outdoor unit
How System 2 Aircons Work
System 2 aircon is a multi-split type of air conditioner. It has one outdoor condenser unit connected to two indoor units through refrigerant pipes. Each indoor unit in this system works independently. You can switch them on or off when needed. You can also set different temperatures for each room.
Please see below working process diagram of a system 2 aircon for better understanding.
Why People Choose System 2?
Below are a few reasons why you should choose a system 2 aircon:
- If you need to cool two bedrooms.
- You have space for only one outdoor unit.
- Your apartment allows only one compressor outside.
- You want to save on energy bills.
- You want a clean and tidy setup.
System 2 is a good balance between comfort and energy efficiency. Therefore, if you fall under any category that I’ve mentioned above, you can opt for a system 2.
Popular Brands Offering System 2 In Singapore
Below are the most renowned aircon brands in Singapore that produce system 2 aircon:
- Daikin
- Mitsubishi Electric
- Panasonic
- Midea
- LG
Each brand offers different features. Some models come with energy-saving modes, anti-bacterial filters, or Wi-Fi control.
Pros of System 2 Aircon
Below are a few major advantages of a system 2 aircon:
1. Saves Outdoor Space
With a system 2, you only need one outdoor unit that will be connected to two separate indoor units. This is great for buildings with limited space for compressors.
2. Lower Installation Cost
Installing a system 2 will be less expensive than installing two separate system 1 aircons.
3. Energy Efficient
Most System 2 units use inverter technology. This means they adjust power based on use and save energy.
4. Easy to Maintain
Servicing one outdoor unit of a system 2 is simpler than maintaining two.
5. Looks Neat
Having fewer outdoor units keeps your balcony or wall tidy.
Cons of System 2 Aircon
1. Shared Compressor
If the outdoor unit of a system 2 fails, both indoor units will be affected.
2. Limited Cooling Power
Cooling power of a system 2 is shared. If you use both rooms at the same time, the system may work harder.
3. Less Flexible
You cannot add a third indoor unit with the system 2 later. You must plan your aircon needs in advance.
Installation and Cost
During installing a system 2, you need to consider below:
- Brand
- Model
- Cooling capacity (measured in BTU)
- Installation fees
Installation cost of a system 2 aircon depends on various factors such as the capacity, brand, model and the service provider you choose for installation. However, below is a general idea of how much it could cost:
| Item | System 2 Aircon |
| Unit cost | SG$1,200–1,600 |
| Labour | SG$300–400 |
| Piping & drainage | SG$250–350 |
| Electrical & circuit breaker | SG$150–200 |
| Total Cost | SG$1,900–2,550 |
Installation time for a system 2 is around 4-8 hours. The process includes mounting the indoor units, placing the compressor, and connecting copper pipes and wiring. If you are living in HDB flats, consider taking aircon installation permits beforehand.
What to Consider Before Buying
Before installing the aircon, please consider below factors carefully:
1. Room Size
Each room needs a different BTU rating. For example:
- Small rooms: 9,000 BTU
- Medium rooms : 12,000 BTU
System 2 aircons come with different BTU combinations such as 10K+13K etc. Therefore, check the capacity carefully and choose the right size aircon for your rooms.
2. Inverter vs Non-Inverter
Inverter aircon models cost more upfront but they will save more power over time.
3. Energy Label
Check the energy rating ticks before making the decision. Higher ticks mean more savings.
4. Noise Level
Look for quiet models, especially if you are using them in bedrooms.
5. Warranty and After-Sales Service
Choose a brand with a good service record and clear warranty terms.
FAQ
What does BTU mean?
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. It measures the cooling power of an aircon. The higher the BTU, the stronger the cooling.
Can I use only one indoor unit at a time?
Yes. You can switch on one or both indoor units as needed. Each indoor unit has its own remote control.
What happens if one indoor unit breaks?
Usually, the other unit still works. But if the outdoor unit has a problem, both indoor units will stop working.
How often should I service it?
Every 3 to 6 months. Clean the aircon filter often by yourself. Regular servicing helps the system work better and last longer.
Can I upgrade a System 2 to a System 3?
No. The outdoor unit is built to support only two indoor units. If you want to cool three rooms, buy a System 3 instead.
