In Singapore’s hot and humid weather, a working air conditioner isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. But like any appliance, aircons can break down or lose performance over time. Some minor issues can be fixed easily, but others require professional aircon repair to prevent further damage.
Here are 7 common aircon problems and how to tell whether it’s time to call in the experts.
1. Aircon Not Cooling Effectively
If your aircon is blowing warm or weak air, it could be due to:
- Dirty air filters
- Low refrigerant (gas leak)
- Blocked condenser coils
If basic cleaning doesn’t help, it’s best to schedule an aircon repair and gas top-up before the problem worsens.
2. Water Leaking from Indoor Unit
A small drip might seem harmless, but constant leaking can damage walls or electrical wiring.
Possible causes include:
- Clogged drainage pipe
- Faulty installation
- Frozen evaporator coils
A technician can flush the drainage system and stop the leak safely.
3. Strange Noises from Aircon
Hearing grinding, rattling, or buzzing sounds? This could indicate:
- Loose parts inside the unit
- Worn-out fan motor
- Compressor issues
Ignoring these noises may lead to expensive breakdowns, so book a repair early.
4. Aircon Turning On and Off Repeatedly
If your aircon keeps shutting down on its own, it might be:
- Overheating due to poor airflow
- Thermostat malfunction
- Electrical fault
This is a serious issue that should be checked by a qualified aircon repair specialist immediately.
5. Bad Odours Coming from Aircon
A musty or foul smell usually means there’s mold or bacteria buildup inside your aircon.
A chemical wash or deep cleaning is recommended to restore fresh airflow and prevent health issues.
6. High Electricity Bills Without Reason
If your electricity bill suddenly spikes, your aircon could be working extra hard due to internal damage or gas leaks.
A quick aircon servicing or repair can restore efficiency and reduce energy usage.
7. Aircon Remote Not Responding
Sometimes it’s just dead batteries, but if multiple remotes aren’t working, it could be due to sensor issues or PCB board failure — best handled by a professional.
DIY vs Professional Repair — When to Call an Expert
| Issue | Can You DIY? | When to Call a Technician |
| Filter Cleaning | ✅ Yes | ❌ Only if inaccessible |
| Weak Cooling | ❌ No | ✅ Suspected gas leak |
| Water Leaks | ❌ No | ✅ Immediately |
| Electrical Issues | ❌ No | ✅ Urgently |
| Noisy Unit | ❌ No | ✅ Before it worsens |
As a rule of thumb: If the problem involves gas, wiring, or internal parts — don’t risk it. Call a licensed aircon repair specialist.
Final Thoughts
Aircon issues are common, but ignoring them can lead to bigger breakdowns and costly replacements. If you notice any of the symptoms above, it’s better to book an aircon repair early rather than wait for a full system failure.
Stay cool, stay safe — and let the experts handle your aircon problems.
