There’s a joke Singaporeans love to share: the country has three seasons—hot, hotter and hottest.
You sweat through your shirt after a short walk to the bus stop, or the heat becomes so unbearable that you can’t focus on anything but staying cool. The midday sun feels like it’s wrapping you in an oven, and by the time you get home, surviving without air conditioning is unimaginable.
That’s why investing in a reliable air conditioner is more than a convenience—it’s essential. This is especially true when summer is approaching. People begin cleaning, upgrading or installing new aircon units to keep their spaces cool.
But not all air conditioners are created equal. The buying process for the average homeowner can feel like rocket science: BTUs, decibels, EER. If you don’t know these terms, you might just go for the fanciest unit in the store; which may not always fit your needs.
From energy efficiency to room size and budget, this guide will teach you how to choose the right air conditioner in Singapore, ensuring you stay cool no matter how warm it gets outside.
Did you know that air conditioning consumes nearly a quarter of a typical Singaporean household’s electricity? It’s no surprise, given that researchers predict even hotter temperatures in the coming months and years.
Choosing the right air conditioner has never been more important. Not only does the right model keep you comfortable, but it also helps reduce energy consumption and keep your electricity bills in check. Here are some key factors to consider when buying an aircon in Singapore:
If you’re wondering what cooling capacity your air conditioner should have, you must first know the size of the room or area where the indoor unit will be installed.
The cooling capacity of an air conditioner is typically measured in BTU, which stands for British Thermal Units. This unit measures the amount of heat an air conditioner can remove from a room per hour. The higher the BTU, the more powerful the air conditioner is in terms of cooling ability.
Take a closer look at this general guideline:
| TYPE OF ROOM | BTU Required |
| HDB COMMON ROOM | 9000BTU |
| HDB MASTER BEDROOM | 12000BTU |
| LIVING ROOM | 18000BTU |
Keep in mind that other factors can influence the required BTU, such as the room’s insulation, the number of windows or how many people typically occupy the space.
When buying an air conditioner, the energy efficiency rating (EER) is one of the most important factors to consider.
The EER measures how efficiently an air conditioner converts electricity into cooling power. It is calculated by dividing the cooling energy in BTUs by the watts required to power the unit. For example, if you own an air conditioner with 12,000 BTUs of cooling and uses 950 watts of power, the EER would be 12.63.
In Singapore, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has a labelling system called Energy Efficiency Ticks to help consumers choose more energy-efficient air conditioners and other appliances.
Image Source: NEA
Here’s a simple way to understand the NEA Ticks:
Certain air conditioners can be quite noisy. To gauge the noise level of an air conditioner, we use a unit called the decibel (dB). A higher decibel rating means a louder sound.
Generally, the noise level of air conditioners ranges from 40 dB to 60 dB, with quieter models typically falling between 40 dB and 50 dB. For comparison, a normal conversation is around 60 dB, while a whisper is about 30 dB. Air conditioners on the lower end of the scale are ideal for spaces where silence is important.
Consider investing in an inverting system if you’re sensitive to noise. They tend to operate more quietly compared to traditional air conditioners. Some models can run as quietly as 19 decibels, which is barely louder than a whisper.
Now that you know the three key factors in choosing an air conditioner, let’s move on to understanding the different types of air conditioners available.
But with so many air conditioner types to choose from, which one is right for you? Should you go for a compact solution for a small bedroom, a powerful system for a large home or a versatile option for an office space? The right choice depends on your cooling needs, room size and budget.
Let’s break down the most common types to help you choose the best cooling solution for your space.
Considered the simplest type of AC unit, window air conditioners are self-contained units installed in a window frame. They’re easy to install, portable and operate independently, making them ideal for smaller spaces.
However, they require a portion of your window space, which may limit natural light and ventilation. In some cases, you may need to carve out a slot in the wall or window area to properly fit the unit. These systems also tend to be noisy because of the built-in compressor.
Moreover, improper installation can lead to issues such as structural damage, air leaks or even safety hazards. We highly recommend hiring a professional air conditioning installation service or certified technicians.
A split air conditioner has two main components: an indoor unit mounted on the wall that circulates cool air into the room, while the outdoor unit expels the heat it extracts.
These two units are connected by flexible copper tubes, eliminating the need for costly ductwork. With a streamlined design, it allows for easier installation without major construction. A single outdoor unit can also power multiple indoor units, offering similar functionality to a central air system.
What makes split air conditioning systems an ideal choice for many homeowners is they feature sleek, stylish designs and are typically mounted high on a wall. This means they can blend with contemporary home decor and add a touch of modern elegance.
But this type of air conditioning is typically more expensive upfront compared to other types, such as window air conditioners. This includes both the cost of the unit and the installation process. They also require periodic servicing to clean the filters, check the refrigerant levels and inspect the connections.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive cooling solution for an entire home or large space, a central air conditioning system might be your ideal choice. They are great for cooling large buildings, offices and spacious homes due to their design.
They consist of an outdoor compressor unit and an indoor unit connected by a network of ducts. The outdoor unit draws heat from the indoor unit and releases it outside, while the indoor unit circulates cool air throughout the space.
This allows it to cool the whole space evenly, unlike window or split air conditioners that only cool certain areas.
The catch is, if you don’t have existing ductwork, installation can be a major undertaking involving ductwork and wall modifications. While this can increase your home’s value, it requires significant planning and investment.
Thanks to their small size and built-in wheels, portable air conditioners require minimal setup and can be moved from room to room. While they function similarly to fixed air conditioners, there are some key differences. These units use a built-in compressor to cool the air, which is then released into the room through a vent.
At the same time, they draw in warm air from the room and expel it outdoors via a flexible exhaust hose, typically routed through a window or door.
Although they are the most affordable AC type, they typically have lower energy efficiency compared to other types of air conditioners. This is because they require more time to cool a room, even if they have the same cooling capacity. You will likely deal with a higher electricity bill in the long run.
Aside from learning the most popular types of air conditioners in the market, you also need to consider the brand. Unlike relying on advice from strangers on forums, who may have different needs and preferences, researching top brands can provide you with reliable information.
Take a closer look at some of the top air conditioner brands in Singapore:
Known as the world’s largest air conditioner manufacturer, Daikin is one of the most popular brands in Singapore due to its excellent reliability, energy efficiency and relatively affordable price.
The brand is also known for its jingle ‘5 ticks Daikin, helping you save energy’—a part of the Daikin iSmile Series.
According to the NEA energy label, the annual energy cost for a System 3 air conditioner is $758, which translates to just $2.08 per day for 8 hours of use. Daikin stands out as the only manufacturer that produces both air conditioners and refrigerants. They were also the first to introduce residential air conditioners that use R32.
Best features:
Mitsubishi’s legacy in air conditioning dates back to 1953 when Mitsubishi Heavy Industries first entered the market. Today, the brand has two separate divisions: Mitsubishi Electric and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
An easy way to distinguish between the two companies is by their air conditioner model names. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries models typically begin with SRC, SRK and SCM, while Mitsubishi Electric models usually start with MXY, MSY, SUYM, PLYM, MUY and MSXY.
Mitsubishi Electric often focuses on residential and light commercial applications, prioritising energy efficiency and sleek design. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, on the other hand, traditionally caters to industrial and large commercial needs. Their models are innovatively crafted with smooth, rounded contours to complement Singapore’s diverse interior styles. Other features include an NEA 5-tick rating for energy efficiency, low noise levels and more.
For instance, Mitsubishi Electric’s best-selling models are the Starmex and Mr. Slim Series. They are known for their sleek and compact design, making them an excellent choice for homes with limited space. These units are also equipped with a range of features, including auto-restart, self-diagnosis and energy-saving modes.
Best features:
Panasonic has a wide selection of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) products. Their residential products include ducted systems, split systems, multi-head split systems, ventilation fans, smart controllers and VRF systems. The brand also offers cassette and ceiling systems.
Moreover, Panasonic is known for its user-friendly controls, which are among the most intuitive across brands. It comes with a wireless remote control that features a large, easy-to-read (LCD) panel that clearly shows the current settings and allows quick access to frequently used functions for their premium models.
Best Features:
Founded in China, Midea has been producing air conditioners since 1985. Known for offering highly affordable base units, Midea stands out in terms of cost-effectiveness.
And while Midea air conditioners may not have all the advanced features of more expensive brands, they are reliable and perform consistently well.
Their ALL EASYPRO Premium series uses eco-friendly R32 refrigerant and is NEA certified with 5 ticks, resulting in an annual energy cost of just $590. Despite being budget-friendly, these air conditioners are energy-efficient and help save on running costs.
Best Features:
When selecting an air conditioner, it’s important to consider both installation and ongoing maintenance for optimal performance and longevity. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Of course, your budget plays a huge role when choosing an air conditioner, but it’s important to consider more than just the upfront price.
Bear in mind that a higher price tag doesn’t always mean a higher overall cost. In fact, expensive models can often be more cost-effective in the long run due to their energy efficiency and durability.
Look at the total lifetime cost—factoring in energy use, maintenance and repairs—to see which unit will provide the best value over time.
Installation is another important factor in the total cost of your air conditioner. Professional installation is recommended to ensure everything works correctly. Depending on the complexity of the installation, system type (split or ducted) and additional work (like electrical upgrades), the installation cost can vary.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the best air conditioner in Singapore. The ‘best’ aircon for your home or office is the one that meets your specific needs, from room size to budget to energy efficiency.
While some air conditioners are known for their affordability, others excel in energy-saving technology or powerful cooling capacity. Your ideal model will depend on various factors such as how often you use your AC, the layout of your space and your preferences regarding noise levels and installation.
So, while the aircon market is filled with top-performing models, the best unit for you is the one that strikes the right balance between performance, price and longevity.
Only you know what will keep your home cool and your bills in check. Choose wisely and don’t settle for less than what works for you.
North East is here for you. As a trusted wholesaler, we offer a wide range of energy-efficient units tailored to your residential space. Let’s discuss your needs today. Contact us now!
When buying an air conditioner, there are several factors to consider:
To calculate the right size (cooling capacity) for your AC, measure your room, calculate space, use BTU guidelines and consider other factors like ceiling height, sunlight exposure and occupancy.
A well-maintained air conditioner can last between 5 to 10 years. However, its lifespan depends on factors like usage, maintenance and the quality of the unit. Regular servicing can extend the life of your air conditioner.
