Category: HVAC Services

Is your aircon running out of refrigerant gas too soon? If so, there is a high possibility of gas leakage from the air conditioning system.

A well functioning AC is highly essential in Singapore’s hot and humid climate as it provides a comfortable living for people. Gas leakage from your aircon system is the most dreaded problem that you may encounter, which is quite expensive to deal with. Usually there are 2 routes that you can take when dealing with aircon gas leak:

• Pressure test to identify the leakage sites.
• Replace the air conditioning system with a completely new system.

Pressure test is advised if the air conditioning system is less than 5 years old, as most parts of the aircon might still be in good functioning state. If the system is older, you may consider a full replacement. In this article we will deep dive into the details of Pressure Test.

Aircon Pressure Test Prices in Singapore

The cost of pressure tests for air conditioning systems can vary due to a range of factors that are as diverse as the systems themselves. The size and type of your air conditioner play a significant role larger or more specialized units often require more extensive testing procedures. Additionally, the complexity of your air conditioning setup is a factor because intricate systems may necessitate more time and expertise for evaluation. The frequency of servicing also influences costs as regularly maintained equipment tends to be in better condition. Moreover, the overall cost of a package can fluctuate if it includes extra services such as thorough inspections or replacement of components.

For easy comprehension, here’s a simplified version of the price chart:

Pressure Test Price

Number of Unit	Price
1	S$250
2	S$350
3	S$450
4	S$550

Gas Leakage Repair

Number of Unit	Price
1	S$400
2	S$550
3	S$650
4	S$750

How To Perform Aircon Pressure Test For Gas Leakage

1. Assemble The Required Tools

Gather the tools like refrigerant, pressure gauge and safety gear such as gloves and goggles, to get ready.

2. Shut off The Cooling System

To reduce accidents, always begin by shutting off the air conditioning system, as they create a super safe environment for well-being.

3. Locate Service Ports

Find the low-pressure and high-pressure service ports on the AC system.

4. Connect Gauge

Attach the pressure gauge to the low-pressure service port. Make sure it’s securely connected.

5. Check Pressure

Turn on the AC and observe the pressure reading on the gauge. It should fall within the manufacturer’s recommended range.

6. Watch Out for Leaks

Any abrupt reductions in the pressure gauge should be taken note of, as they may point to a leak in the system.

7. Add Freon As Needed

In case of low pressure, add refrigerant according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Record Results

Note down the pressure readings and any actions taken during the test for future reference.

8. Final Checks

Once the test is complete, double-check all connections and ensure everything is back in place.

10. Turn on AC

Turn the Aircon back on and verify that it’s working correctly after the pressure test.

Benefits of Aircon Pressure Tests

1. Identify Leakage Sites

It helps to identify multiple leakages site on the aircon system which may be causing the gas leakage.

2. Extended Life of Air Conditioning Units

Your cooling system will last longer if possible problems are found and fixed early on. This will also stop needless wear and strain.

3. Improved Indoor Air Quality

Running your air conditioner at full capacity encourages the flow of clean, filtered air, which is particularly helpful for those with respiratory or allergy issues.

4. Major Failure Avoidance

By spotting little problems before they develop into larger breakdowns, you can prevent expensive repairs and ensure ongoing comfort throughout the hot months.

Tips To Prevent Gas Leakage

1. To prevent blockages and pressure on the system, clean or replace the air filters every one to three months.
2. Regularly check for refrigerant leaks to preserve energy savings and cooling efficiency.
3. For cooling purposes, set your thermostat to 78°F. For energy economy, utilize programmed settings.
4. Maintain a clear space surrounding your air conditioner, and prune any trees or other obstructions to improve ventilation.
5. Plan yearly maintenance with HVAC experts to extend the life of your air conditioner and identify issues early.
6. Reduce the possibility of water damage and system faults by maintaining debris- and blockage-free condensate lines. This will ensure efficient drainage.

It is imperative to reevaluate the requirement for an air conditioning pressure test. Although it could appear like a standard process, in practice, it frequently doesn’t offer any meaningful insights into how the system works. Rather than requiring the additional expense and complexity of a pressure test, routine maintenance and visual inspections may usually resolve the majority of air conditioning problems. Your air conditioner will operate more efficiently and last longer if you priorities preventive maintenance and take quick action to fix visible problems.

The hot and humid climate of Singapore contributes to a very high usage of air conditioning in both residential and commercial premises. With high usage air conditioning comes problems associated with the aircon units, which has resulted in the registration of numerous aircon servicing companies under ACRA Singapore (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority). In Singapore, there are more than 250 aircon cleaning companies who provide various kinds of air conditioner servicing based on your requirements.

Making the right decision about which air conditioning business to use for your needs can be somewhat challenging. This article will dive into what you should be looking for in a company before you choose them for your aircon service.

1. Reputation and Experience

Seek out air conditioning businesses with a strong track record and a wealth of industry expertise. Customers are more likely to be satisfied when a firm has a track record of success, and their history in the industry speaks volumes about their dependability. To determine the company’s reputation and degree of client satisfaction, look through testimonials and online reviews and get in touch with references.

2. Certifications and Licensing

Verify that the air conditioning company is licensed and certified to operate in Singapore. Licensed experts are more likely to abide by rules and guidelines in the field, giving you peace of mind about the caliber of their job. A dedication to excellence is also demonstrated by certifications from respectable trade associations.

3. Range of Services

Think about the variety of services the air conditioning firm provides. Do they offer services for installation, upkeep, and repair? A wide range of services guarantees that you can depend on the same business for all of your air conditioning requirements, which promotes a long-term relationship.

4. Technical Expertise

Examine the technicians’ level of technical proficiency. Are they skilled and informed about different brands and types of air conditioning systems? A skilled group can precisely identify problems, suggest workable fixes, and guarantee that installations are completed precisely.

5. Energy Efficiency Focus

Energy efficiency is vital in Singapore, where environmental consciousness is high on the agenda. Seek out air conditioning firms that give energy-saving solutions first priority. This can result in long-term energy bill savings in addition to lowering your carbon footprint.

6. Customer Service and Response Time

Analyze the company’s customer service provision. Fast reaction times and clear communication are crucial, particularly in case of emergencies or urgent repairs. A business that prioritizes customer satisfaction is more likely to pay close attention to your demands and immediately resolve any issues.

7. Transparent Pricing

Make sure pricing is transparent and request comprehensive quotes. Unpleasant surprises might result from unclear cost structures and hidden surcharges. Reputable air conditioning companies will provide you detailed, itemized quotes so you can see exactly what each service will cost you.

8. Warranty and Maintenance Contracts

Check the warranty offerings on installations and equipment. Additionally, inquire about maintenance contracts, as regular servicing is essential for the longevity and efficiency of your air conditioning system. Companies that offer comprehensive maintenance plans demonstrate a commitment to the ongoing performance of your system

StringsSG partners with some of the best aircon servicing companies in Singapore to provide you with high quality aircon servicing. Once you open a request on our web or mobile platform, the platform will assign a reliable aircon service contractor who can meet your requirements and budget.

Have you started to notice black patches or mold on the aircon trunking? These are early signs of condensation on the trunking which can eventually lead to water dripping, if not fixed.

AC trunking refers to the network of ducts, pipes, and channels that distribute cooled or heated air throughout a building. In this article, we bring to you the reasons behind condensation on AC trunking and explore potential solutions to this fix the problem.

1. Poor Insulation

Insufficient or damaged insulation on AC trunking can lead to temperature imbalances, fostering condensation. Insulation acts as a barrier, preventing the transfer of heat between duct surfaces and surrounding air.

Solution: Regularly inspect AC trunking insulation, repairing or replacing damaged sections as needed. Upgrading to higher-grade insulation enhances the effectiveness of the barrier, minimizing condensation risks.

2. Air Leaks

Air leaks in the ductwork contribute to condensation by allowing warm, humid air to enter and contact cooler surfaces. Leaks can also compromise insulation efficiency.

Solution: Promptly seal any air leaks in AC ducts. Regular inspections and maintenance help identify and address leaks, preserving the system’s integrity and preventing condensation issues.

3. Improper Installation Of Trunk

If the aircon trunks are not installed correctly, water from your air conditioner might drip into the trunk, causing it to get wet and form condensation. There should not be any loose connection between the aircon unit and the trunk from water can slip through.

Solution: In most cases the solution is to re-install the trunks and ensure that the trunks correctly fit and align with the aircon units.

4. Trap Floor Blockage

A floor trap blockage can contribute to condensation on AC trunking through a combination of factors related to restricted drainage and increased humidity.

A floor trap is designed to allow the drainage of water. When the floor trap is blocked, water drainage becomes impeded. If your air conditioning unit produces condensate (water formed during the cooling process), a blocked floor trap can prevent the proper drainage of this water and hence cause water leakage.

Solution: Engage a professional aircon technician to clear the blockage in the floor trap, ensuring proper drainage.

Final Thoughts

AC trunking, comprising the network of ducts and channels, plays a vital role in the functioning of air conditioning systems. Understanding and addressing condensation issues through regular inspection, maintenance, and the use of quality insulation materials are crucial steps in ensuring the efficiency and longevity of AC systems. By implementing the suggested solutions, users can maintain a comfortable and well-regulated indoor environment, free from condensation-related challenges.

Various types of aircon pipe insulation are available for residential and industrial use, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages depending on the application. To simplify the selection process and ensure optimal system performance in the long run, it is crucial to consider the requirements of the premises where the insulation is being installed.

This article specifically focuses on closed-cell pipe insulation, comparing flexible rubber with foam pipe insulation and exploring which option is better suited for different applications. Both rubber and foam pipe insulations have closed-cell structures that effectively manage condensation and thermal exchange on cold piping systems.

Rubber Insulation

Flexible elastomeric closed-cell foam pipe insulation, commonly known as rubber, is composed of synthetic rubber. The two primary formulations available are nitrile butadiene rubber with PVC (NBR/PVC) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer). The industry standard is ASTM C 534. A comparison between NBR/PVC and EPDM is provided in a later section.

Foam Insulation

Alternative to rubber insulation is foam insulation also known as polyethylene, polyolefin, poly, or PE. Foam plastic pipe insulation is commonly used in residential and light commercial piping systems, following the industry standard ASTM C 1427.

Rubber Vs Foam Insulation

Choosing between foam rubber and foam plastic depends on factors such as thermal efficiency, continuous service temperature, fire safety, density, and cost. Foam rubber typically offers a lower thermal conductivity (favorable K-value) than foam plastic. The upper continuous service temperature varies, with foam plastic at 200°F, NBR/PVC foam rubber at 220℉, and EPDM foam rubber at 257℉.

Fire safety is a critical consideration, with foam rubber generally passing ASTM E 84 or UL 723 tests, while foam plastic may exhibit less predictable behavior, especially at greater thicknesses.

Considering factors like density, cost, and performance characteristics, foam plastic is often less expensive than rubber.

When comparing rubber to foam plastic pipe insulation, rubber is generally preferred for commercial and industrial applications due to its lower thermal conductivity, higher continuous operating temperature, and more predictable fire behavior. Rubber is likely to meet the building owner’s project requirements more comprehensively.

Air conditioner pipe insulation is one of the critical activity carried out during new installation of aircon system. Pipe insulation plays an important role in improving energy efficiency, preventing condensation problems and ensures proper functioning of the overall cooling function. In this article we bring to you a comprehensive guide on importance of ac pipe insulation, type of insulations and common problems.

What Is AC Pipe Insulation & Why It Matters

Aircon pipe insulation is a protective covering applied to the pipes of an air conditioning (AC) system. The main purpose of this insulation is to protect the pipes from outside heat which can cause condensation and water dripping, as the pipes are exposed to outside atmosphere heat the cooling performance is deteriorated. The pipes in an AC system carry refrigerant, which undergoes phase changes to absorb and release heat, contributing to the cooling or heating of the indoor environment. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of aircon pipe insulation:

1. Energy Efficiency

Aircon pipe insulation acts a thermal barrier between the refrigerant gas in the pipes and the the outside environment heat. This insulation minimizes energy loss during the transportation of conditioned air, ensuring that the cooling or heating process remains efficient.

2. Condensation Control

Uninsulated air conditioning pipes are susceptible to condensation when the temperature of the refrigerant inside is significantly lower than the atmospheric air. Condensation can lead to water damage, corrosion, and reduced system efficiency. Proper insulation acts as a barrier against moisture, preventing condensation and its associated problems.

3. Prevention of Heat Gain

In addition to preventing heat loss, aircon pipe insulation also helps in avoiding heat gain from the surrounding environment. This is crucial for systems that operate in high-temperature environments, ensuring that the refrigerant remains at the desired temperature for optimal performance.

Common Problems with AC Pipe Insulation

1. Deterioration and Wear

Over time, aircon pipe insulation can deteriorate due to exposure to environmental factors, leading to reduced effectiveness. Inspect the insulation regularly and replace any sections showing signs of wear.

2. Poor Installation

Improperly installed insulation, with gaps or inadequate coverage, can compromise its efficiency. Ensure proper installation, especially around joints and connections, to prevent heat exchange issues.

3. Pest Damage

Rodents and insects may find insulation materials attractive for nesting. Regularly check for signs of pest damage and replace affected insulation promptly.

4. Moisture Infiltration:

Moisture infiltration, whether from leaks or improper sealing, can undermine the insulation’s ability to resist condensation. Address any sources of moisture promptly and replace damaged insulation.

Types of Aircon Pipe Insulation

1. Foam Insulation

Foam insulation, such as closed-cell elastomeric foam, is a popular choice for aircon pipes. It offers excellent thermal properties, moisture resistance, and flexibility, making it easy to install around pipes of various shapes and sizes.

2. Rubber Insulation

Rubber insulation is durable, weather-resistant, and resistant to UV exposure. It is an excellent choice for outdoor aircon pipes, protecting them from the elements.

3. Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is another common option, known for its affordability and effectiveness. It provides thermal resistance and is suitable for both residential and commercial air conditioning systems.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

1. Proper Installation

Ensure that the insulation is installed snugly around the pipes without any gaps. Pay special attention to joints, elbows, and connections where heat exchange is more likely to occur.

2. Regular Inspection

Periodically inspect the condition of the aircon pipe insulation. Look for signs of wear, tear, or damage. Replace any damaged insulation promptly to maintain its effectiveness.

3. Professional Assistance

If you’re unsure about the state of your aircon pipe insulation or need to install new insulation, consider seeking professional assistance. HVAC technicians can assess your system’s needs and ensure proper installation.

Investing in quality aircon pipe insulation is a proactive step toward enhancing the efficiency and longevity of your air conditioning system. Whether for residential or commercial use, the benefits of proper insulation extend beyond energy savings to include improved indoor comfort and reduced maintenance issues. Prioritize aircon pipe insulation, and you’ll not only experience a more efficient cooling or heating process but also contribute to a sustainable and comfortable living or working environment.

If your aircon is leaking water from the indoor unit itself, it may not be a condensation problem with the insulation. Refer to our article on aircon leaking water for details.