Category: HVAC Services

It’s been raining a lot lately, and in a tropical climate like Singapore, it sure does bring relief from the heat. However, it also presents unique challenges for maintaining your air conditioner. With increased humidity and fluctuating temperatures, ensuring that your air conditioner is operating efficiently is crucial. Proper maintenance during this period not only helps prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner but also keeps indoor air quality at its best. 

Let’s explore the steps to maintain your aircon during the rainy season properly.

Why is Aircon Maintenance Important During the Rainy Season?

While rain can cool the outdoor environment, the increased humidity makes indoor spaces feel sticky and uncomfortable. Aircons have to work harder to balance the moisture in the air, putting additional strain on the system. Excessive humidity can also encourage mold growth and cause water damage, reducing your aircon’s efficiency and leading to costly repairs.

Regular maintenance during the rainy season ensures your aircon can handle the extra workload while keeping your home cool and dry. It also helps prevent sudden breakdowns, which are more likely when the unit is not maintained correctly.

1. Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly

One of the simplest yet most important maintenance tasks for your aircon is cleaning or replacing the air filters. During the rainy season, dust and allergens can easily accumulate in the filters, leading to restricted airflow. Dirty filters force the aircon to work harder, increasing energy consumption and reducing cooling efficiency.

Therefore, it’s important to clean out your aircon filters every two weeks during the rainy season. If the filters are reusable, wash them with water and dry them completely before reinstallation. For disposable filters, replace them as recommended by the manufacturer. It’s also great if you use HEPA filters to improve indoor air quality by capturing smaller particles like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. 

2. Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit

During the rainy season, the outdoor unit, or condenser, is exposed to the elements, which can lead to debris accumulation, such as leaves, dirt, and twigs. These obstructions can affect airflow and cooling performance. Additionally, standing water around the outdoor unit may cause rust and corrosion, leading to potential damage. Hence, it’s important to arrange for professional aircon servicing as often as possible to ensure no standing water near the unit and to help clear away debris. 

3. Check for Mold and Mildew Growth

The rainy season creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, especially when mold can develop in the aircon’s ducts, filters, and evaporator coils. This can lead to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. Mold spores can be harmful when circulated through the air, particularly for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues. 

You can regularly inspect the indoor unit, especially the air filters and evaporator coils, for any signs of mold or mildew. If you notice a musty smell or see mold, it’s crucial to clean the affected areas immediately using a mixture of water and mild detergent. Additionally, running the aircon in “dry mode” during periods of high humidity helps to remove excess moisture from the air and prevent mold formation. 

4. Monitor the Drainage System

Aircons produce condensate water during the cooling process, which is normally drained out of the system. However, during the rainy season, the increased moisture in the air may lead to a higher volume of condensate, putting more pressure on the drainage system. Blocked or clogged drainage pipes can result in water leakage, which may damage the unit and surrounding areas.

It’s important to check the drainage pipe for blockages. Clear clogs using a thin, flexible brush, or a vacuum to ensure proper water flow. It’s good to keep an eye out to ensure it’s free from algae or debris, which can also cause a blockage. 

5. Schedule Regular Professional Servicing

While there are several tasks you can handle on your own, scheduling regular professional aircon servicing is crucial, especially during the rainy season. A professional technician can thoroughly inspect and clean parts that are difficult to access, such as the evaporator coils, condenser fins, and refrigerant lines. They can also check for issues like refrigerant leaks, electrical problems, or worn-out components that may affect your aircon’s performance.

Aim to have your aircon serviced at least twice yearly, particularly before and after the rainy season. Regular maintenance can prevent breakdowns, extend the lifespan of your unit, and ensure that it operates efficiently throughout the year. 

6. Use the Right Aircon Mode for the Rainy Season

The rainy season in Singapore often brings fluctuating temperatures and high humidity. Choose the most suitable mode to optimize your aircon’s performance during this time. The “dry mode” is highly effective for reducing moisture without excessively cooling the air, making it perfect for rainy days when the temperature is not too high but the humidity is unbearable.

Switching your aircon to “dry mode” during humid periods helps dehumidify a room without overcooling it. This not only helps maintain a comfortable indoor climate but also reduces the strain on your air conditioner, leading to energy savings. 

7. Inspect Electrical Components

Heavy rain and thunderstorms during the rainy season can cause power surges or short circuits, which may damage the electrical components of your aircon. Regularly inspecting the electrical connections and components can help prevent costly repairs.

You can check the electrical connections for signs of wear or damage. Call a professional to inspect your aircon if you notice flickering lights or other unusual electrical issues. 

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your aircon during Singapore’s rainy season is essential to ensure optimal performance, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. With the right aircon maintenance practices in place, you can enjoy a comfortable, cool, and healthy home environment, even during the most humid days. Remember, investing time and effort in maintaining your aircon extends its lifespan and helps you save on energy bills and avoid costly repairs in the long run.

It’s always good to have a reliable aircon system to maintain comfort at home, especially in Singapore’s tropical heat. And with numerous brands available, it can definitely be challenging to choose the right aircon that meets your needs. To help you narrow down your selection, we’ve come up with a list of why you should choose PRISM+ – a local, Singaporean brand.

1. Support Local Businesses

“Support local businesses” – remember this phrase that was floating around during the COVID-19? Well, it still hasn’t lost its credibility. In today’s globalized market, buying locally is more important than ever. Supporting local businesses helps to strengthen the community by keeping money within the country, creating jobs, and fostering local talent. PRISM+  Aircon is a homegrown brand that understands the unique demands of Singapore’s climate and tailors its products accordingly.

By choosing PRISM+, you’re not only investing in a quality product but also contributing to the growth of local enterprises, which play a vital role in the nation’s economy. Did you know that supporting local businesses also reduces carbon footprints associated with importing goods from abroad?

2. High-Quality Aircon Solutions

PRISM+ aircon is known for providing high-quality aircon systems that are durable, efficient, and designed to withstand Singapore’s humid climate. PRISM+’s aircon units are engineered to deliver optimal cooling while being energy efficient, helping you save on electricity bills in the long run.

Whether you need an aircon for your home, office, or commercial space – PRISM+ offers a range of products to suit different needs. Their aircon units are also equipped with advanced features like smart temperature control, energy-saving modes, and quiet operation.

3. Reliable Aircon Repair and Maintenance Services

One of the significant advantages of choosing a local brand like PRISM+ is the accessibility of after-sales support, including aircon repair and maintenance services. They offer reliable and responsive customer service, ensuring that any issues with your aircon are addressed promptly.

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of your aircon system. PRISM+ provides comprehensive aircon servicing packages tailored to keep your unit in top condition – preventing costly breakdowns and ensuring consistent performance.

4. Custom Solutions for Singaporean Homes

PRISM+ aircon understands the specific needs of Singaporean households and businesses. The brand offers customized air conditioning solutions that cater to the unique challenges posed by Singapore’s climate. Whether you need a system that can handle high humidity levels or one that offers smart cooling options, PRISM+ has you covered.

Their aircon units are designed to provide efficient cooling without compromising on comfort.

5. Value for Money

We love any product that offers value for money, and PRISM+ aircon offers just that without compromising on quality. By choosing PRISM+, you get a high-quality, reliable air conditioning system that’s built to last, all while supporting a local business. The long-term savings on energy bills, coupled with the durability of PRISM+ aircon units, ensure that you get excellent value for your money.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing an aircon system, PRISM+ has been a strong front-runner for Singaporeans. Not only do they offer a variety of high-quality services, but supporting them allows you to do your part in supporting local businesses and contributing to the economy. Ergo, PRISM+ aircon is an investment that pays off in comfort, efficiency, and community support.

The unpredictable weather in Singapore and the humid climate makes drying clothes here an absolute challenge. Especially if you don’t own a dryer. Many people wonder if using an aircon can help dry clothes faster or if it might leave them smelling musty? Read on to finding out how effective an aircon can be for drying clothes and uncover the secrets to making this method work for you.

How Aircon can help dry clothes

Aircons are designed to cool the air and reduce humidity levels. Which can theoretically help dry clothes faster by removing moisture from the air. But does it fully work?

Reduced humidity	Significantly lower indoor humidity – speeding up the evaporation of moisture from clothes. Making it beneficial in Singapore’s humid climate where drying clothes indoors can take a long time.
Consistent air flow	Provide a steady airflow – helps evaporate moisture from clothes. Placing clothes near the aircon vent can enhance this effect and speed up the drying process.
Convenience	Without a dryer, using an aircon offers a convenient indoor drying option. This eliminates the risks associated with drying clothes outdoors like rain.

Potential downsides and solutions

Musty Odor	One common concern is that clothes might develop a musty smell when dried with an aircon. This would occur if clothes were not dried thoroughly and remain damp for too long. To avoid this, ensure clothes are spread out and not bunched together, allowing air to circulate freely around each item.
Energy Consumption	Running an aircon to dry clothes can increase energy usage. To reduce this, use the aircon during regular timing and ensure the room is well-insulated to maintain efficiency.
Proper Ventilation	Aircon can help dry clothes, but it’s crucial to maintain proper ventilation in the room. Using a fan together with aircon can also improve airflow and expedite the drying process.

Final Thoughts

Using an aircon can be an effective way to dry clothes, especially in humid climates like Singapore. By reducing humidity and maintaining airflow, an aircon can speed up the drying process and prevent clothes from developing a musty odor. However, it’s essential to use proper drying techniques and regularly service your aircon for optimal results.

5 Best Ways To Extend Your Aircon’s Life in Singapore

Aircon is a staple in Singapore’s humidity. Especially to maintain a comfortable living environment. So, to ensure your aircon remains efficient and has a long lifespan, regular maintenance and smart usage are crucial. Here are five best ways for you to extend your aircon’s life in sunny Singapore!\

1. Regular Aircon Servicing

We can’t say this enough. One of the most effective ways to extend your aircon’s life is through regular servicing. Professional technicians can identify and fix potential issues before they become huge problems. Something that we can’t do. Regular maintenance also helps keep your aircon running smoothly and efficiently – reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and prolonging its lifespan. Ensuring that your unit operates at peak efficiency. And helping you save money on energy bills!

2. Clean or Replace Filters Regularly

It is important to clean or replace your aircon filters every few months to prevent dust and debris from being clogged. Clean filters allow for better airflow which reduces strain on your aircon’s parts and improves overall performance. This simple yet tedious step can prevent many common aircon problems.

3. Keep the Coils Clean

One thing folks often miss out on is keeping the evaporator and condenser coils clean. This is crucial as clean coils improve heat exchange efficiency and reduce the workload on your aircon. This not only enhances performance but also prevents the system from overheating.

4. Use Ceiling Fans to Complement Your Aircon

Ceiling fans can be a great way to complement your aircon and reduce its workload. By using ceiling fans, you can circulate the cool air more effectively throughout your space, allowing you to set your aircon at a higher temperature without sacrificing comfort. It also helps distribute cool air evenly.

5. Ensure Proper Insulation and Ventilation

Proper insulation and ventilation can significantly impact your aircon’s efficiency. Make sure your home is well-insulated to prevent cool air from escaping. Additionally, ensure that there are no obstructions blocking the air vents. Good insulation and ventilation reduce the workload on your aircon by maintaining a stable indoor temperature.

Final Thoughts

Extending the life of your aircon requires the above and more. By scheduling regular aircon servicing and doing your due diligence to upkeep your aircon unit, you can ensure your aircon will last a long time.

Sleeping during the rainy season can be both comforting and challenging. Especially while the sound of the rain can be soothing, yet the increased humidity levels can make it extremely difficult to find the right balance for a comfortable night’s sleep. Setting your aircon to a perfect temperature can help you achieve a restful sleep while maintaining energy efficiency. Here’s how to find the best aircon temperature for sleeping during the rainy season in Singapore.

Finding the Perfect Temperature

For a comfortable sleeping environment during the rainy season, experts generally recommend setting your aircon temperature between 23°C and 25°C. This temperature range balances cooling with humidity control, making it cool enough to combat the dampness in the air without being so cold that it disrupts your sleep cycle. Here’s why this range is ideal:

Why This Temperature Range?

Comfort	Sleeping in a room that’s too warm can lead to sweating and restlessness, while a room that’s too cold can cause shivering or interrupted sleep. Studies show that maintaining a steady room temperature between 23°C and 25°C allows your body to regulate its core temperature for restful sleep. Since the rainy season’s high humidity can make a room feel warmer, a cooler setting around 23°C may be ideal on more humid nights, while 25°C could be more comfortable on milder nights.
Humidity Control	During the rainy season, humidity levels tend to be higher, creating an atmosphere that feels stuffy and damp. High humidity can also increase the risk of mold and mildew growth, which isn’t just unsightly but can also affect your health, especially if you’re prone to allergies. Running the aircon at a moderate temperature between 23°C and 25°C helps dehumidify the room, reducing that uncomfortable, sticky feeling without needing to crank the temperature down to extremes.
Energy Efficiency	Setting the aircon to a comfortable but not excessively low temperature can help you avoid high electricity bills. Maintaining the temperature at 23°C to 25°C reduces the workload on the unit, lowering energy consumption. For every degree you increase your thermostat above 25°C, you could see a savings of around 6-8% on your energy bill. So, aiming for this range not only helps create a comfortable environment but also keeps energy costs down—a win-win during the extended use of the aircon in the rainy season.

Tips for Maximising Comfort and Efficiency

To get the most out of your aircon without sacrificing comfort, here are some useful tips:

1. Regular Aircon Maintenance

An aircon that’s regularly serviced runs more efficiently. Routine servicing by a reliable aircon service provider in Singapore ensures that filters are clean, coils are functioning correctly, and no leaks are present. Clean filters help maintain good airflow, which is essential for efficient cooling and dehumidification. Aim to have your aircon serviced every three to six months for optimal performance.

2. Complement with Ceiling Fans

Using a ceiling fan alongside your aircon is a great way to circulate cool air more effectively, which allows you to keep the temperature set slightly higher without compromising comfort. The fan helps distribute the cool air around the room, maintaining an even temperature and reducing the need to keep the aircon running at a lower temperature.

3. Close Doors and Windows

When your aircon is on, closing all windows and doors is essential to prevent humid air from entering. This small step makes a significant difference, as it prevents the aircon from working harder to cool the room, which in turn lowers your energy use and electricity costs.

4. Opt for Breathable Bedding and Clothing

Wearing light, breathable fabrics and using bed linens made from materials like cotton or bamboo can enhance the cooling effects of your aircon. These materials allow better airflow and help wick away moisture, keeping you comfortable throughout the night without needing to adjust the temperature.

5. Use Curtains and Blinds

Keeping your room dark and cool before bedtime is also helpful. Closing curtains and blinds during the day can keep out excess heat and humidity, reducing the room temperature naturally. This can make a big difference when you turn on the aircon, as the unit won’t have to work as hard to achieve a comfortable temperature.

Additional Benefits of Setting the Aircon Right

A properly set aircon during sleep can do more than just keep you cool. Here’s how finding the optimal temperature also improves health and wellness:

1. Better Sleep Quality

Research shows that sleeping in a cooler room enhances REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which is essential for mental and emotional health. REM sleep can be harder to achieve in overly warm or humid environments, so a room that stays within the 23°C to 25°C range can make a difference in how restful your sleep is.

2. Reduced Allergy Symptoms

Lowering humidity can also help prevent dust mites and mold from thriving. Aircons, especially those equipped with HEPA filters, capture allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander, making it easier to breathe and reducing allergy symptoms. For allergy sufferers, regular filter cleaning is key to maximizing these benefits.

3. Enhanced Metabolism

There’s evidence to suggest that cooler temperatures may support better metabolism. When you sleep in a cooler environment, your body works slightly harder to stay warm, which can increase calorie burn overnight. Although not a major calorie-burning activity, this added boost to your metabolism can contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right aircon temperature to sleep comfortably during the rainy season doesn’t have to be complicated. Setting your thermostat between 23°C and 25°C offers the best balance of cooling, dehumidification, and energy efficiency. With a few adjustments, like adding ceiling fans, using light bedding, and keeping your aircon well-maintained, you can optimize your sleeping environment for restful nights and reduced energy costs.

Remember, it’s the simple practices that often lead to the most effective outcomes. By making these minor adjustments, you can enjoy the comfort of a cool, humidity-free room that helps you wake up refreshed and ready to face each day — rain or shine!

Do you prefer sleeping with the fan, aircon, or both switched on simultaneously? Well, if you love sleeping with the aircon switched on, you’d be glad to know that it can offer a multitude of benefits that go beyond just cooling your room. For many living in hot and humid climates like ours, aircon can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Curious to learn more? Read on.

1. Improved Sleep Quality

Do you sleep like a baby? One of the key benefits of sleeping with the aircon switched on is the improvement in sleep quality. The National Sleep Foundation recommends keeping the bedroom around 23-25°C to optimize sleep. Aircon makes it easy to set a consistent temperature, helping you avoid waking up from overheating or night sweats. Cool air also supports deep sleep, allowing your body to progress through each sleep stage properly, which is crucial for mental and physical restoration.

Pro Tip: If you’re new to sleeping with an aircon, experiment with different settings to find what’s most comfortable. Try turning on a timer so the aircon switches off after a few hours if you’re concerned about energy usage.

2. Reduced Humidity

We live in a tropical climate, and that is often followed by high humidity levels. In turn, that will make it difficult to sleep comfortably. High humidity not only disrupts sleep but can also contribute to sweating, which can soil bedsheets and mattresses more frequently. Aircons are designed to not only cool the air but also remove excess moisture, creating a drier, more comfortable atmosphere. Lower humidity levels prevent the development of mold, dust mites, and mildew, which thrive in damp environments.

Pro Tip: A dehumidified room also reduces the chance of respiratory issues linked to damp environments, making it easier to breathe. For the best results, consider aircon units with built-in humidity control or pair your aircon with a separate dehumidifier if humidity levels are consistently high.

3. Noise Reduction

The latest aircon models are designed to operate quietly, providing a peaceful environment to sleep in. In urban environments, keeping windows open at night can let in noise from traffic, neighbors, and other disturbances. When windows are closed, the aircon also helps block external noise, creating a quiet space ideal for sleeping.

Pro Tip: If your aircon is older and noisier, try a “sleep” mode if it has one. This feature often adjusts the fan speed to a quieter level while still keeping the room cool.

4. Health Benefits

We often hear of the negatives, but let’s focus on the positives, shall we? Believe it or not, sleeping in a cool room can contribute to various health benefits. A cooler environment helps regulate melatonin production, a hormone associated with the sleep-wake cycle and even anti-aging benefits. Additionally, a stable, cool temperature aids metabolic function and prevents dehydration by reducing the need for your body to work harder to cool down. Keeping your room cool also improves the body’s overall thermoregulation, potentially leading to better heart health, improved cognitive function, and increased daytime energy.

Pro Tip: Research suggests that cooler sleeping conditions may also support metabolic rate. This means that if you’re sleeping in a cooler environment, your body could work slightly harder to maintain warmth, potentially contributing to a minimal calorie burn overnight.

5. Allergen Control

Aircons can help filter out allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander from the air. This makes it easier for those with allergies or asthma to breathe comfortably. Clean air filters help trap these particles, ensuring the air you breathe is fresher and cleaner. Over time, a properly maintained aircon unit can reduce allergens in your bedroom, providing better breathing and fewer respiratory irritations.

Pro Tip: Keep your aircon well-maintained for optimal allergen control. Dirty filters can become less effective and may circulate dust and allergens if not regularly cleaned or replaced. Aim to clean the filters monthly, especially if you live in a high-pollution area or have pets.

Final Thoughts

There you have it. After learning more about the numerous benefits sleeping with the aircon switched on has to offer, we do hope you’re mindful of the usage of aircon. Otherwise, embrace the comfort of a cool, peaceful night’s sleep with the help of your aircon. Remember to use it mindfully to conserve energy and keep maintenance up to date with regular servicing. Not only will you have a better rest, but you’ll also experience the numerous health benefits that come with it.