Chemical Cleaning vs Overhaul: Which Does Your Aircon Need?

aircond maintenance cleaning

Chemical Cleaning vs Overhaul: Which Does Your Aircon Need?

  • As it continues to get hotter in Singapore, you are more likely to keep our air conditioners running for longer hours. However, this also means that as time goes by, mould, bacteria, dust, and grime will likely build up deep in your aircon system.

To tackle this, you'll need to give your air conditioning system a deep clean. If you do further research, you may discover there are two different ways to go about this: chemical cleaning or overhaul cleaning. But which one does your aircon need?


In this guide, we’ll discuss the differences and benefits of chemical cleaning and overhaul to see which works best for your aircon. We’ll also suggest where you can get a chemical overhaul for your aircon in Singapore.



Importance of Regular Aircon Maintenance


In general, aircon maintenance is necessary to ensure it stays efficient for the long run. As time goes by, dirt and dust will build up in your aircon system. Having a professional technician conduct these routine inspections ensures that your device is checked thoroughly for any of these issues and more, including cleaning and inspecting vital components like filters, coils, and refrigerant levels.

During these regular maintenance and inspections, the professional technician may notice signs that your aircon needs further cleaning. They could have noticed a buildup of mould, bacteria o rother irregular dirt that needs to be addressed differently. This is where they may suggest two types of cleaning options: chemical cleaning or chemical overhaul.

What is Chemical Cleaning?

An aircon chemical wash thoroughly cleans the unit's coils, filters, and water trays using a specialised solution. This process effectively kills and prevents the growth of mould and harmful bacteria, improving indoor air quality.

A chemical wash can enhance the aircon's efficiency by removing dirt and debris that hinder airflow.

Benefits of Chemical Cleaning

The goal of chemical cleaning is to wash key parts of the aircon system. As such, some of the benefits include:

  • Improved Efficiency: Dirt accumulating in your aircon can restrict airflow, causing the unit to overwork and consume more electricity. A professional chemical cleaning eliminates this dirt, restoring your aircon's efficiency and reducing your energy costs.
  • Elimination of Unpleasant Smells: Unpleasant smells coming from your aircon often indicate a buildup of mould. This is a clear sign that your unit needs a deep clean using specialised chemicals. A professional aircon chemical wash will eliminate the bad odour and prevent future bacterial growth.

What is a Chemical Overhaul?

A chemical overhaul is a deep clean that goes beyond a standard aircon service. While regular cleaning focuses on coils, filters, and water trays, an overhaul tackles the entire system, including drainage pipes, heat exchange coils, and blower wheels. This process includes inspecting and adjusting thermostats and controls. 

The entire unit is disassembled and cleaned, with particular attention paid to the coil. This crucial component is removed, thoroughly washed with a specialised chemical, and then rinsed to prevent corrosion.

Other parts, such as the drain pan, fan blades, and blower wheel, are also cleaned before the unit is reassembled. A final pressure check ensures optimal performance. This comprehensive approach not only restores peak performance but also extends the life of your aircon by preventing costly repairs.

At 81 Aircon, our technicians inspect every component, identifying and addressing issues like blocked drains or dirty vents. For optimal results, we recommend scheduling a chemical overhaul for your aircon annually.


Benefits of Chemical Overhaul

With such a thorough clean, you can expect some great benefits when your aircon system goes through a chemical overhaul. This includes:

  • Extended Lifespan: A chemical overhaul helps extend the lifespan of your air conditioning system by addressing potential issues such as corrosion, rust, and wear, saving you money on premature replacements.
  • Enhanced Cooling Efficiency: The overhaul includes cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils, which enhances the cooling efficiency of your aircon. This ensures that your unit cools your space more effectively and quickly.

  • Improved Air Quality: Removing built-up mould, bacteria, and allergens from the aircon components improves indoor air quality. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues.

    Reduced Energy Consumption: A cleaner and more efficient aircon system consumes less energy, leading to lower electricity bills. The overhaul helps the system run more smoothly, reducing the strain on its components.


Key Differences Between Chemical Cleaning and Chemical Overhaul

Chemical cleaning is a surface-level treatment that removes dirt and impurities from your air conditioner using a chemical solution. This process helps kill bacteria and germs for cleaner air.


Overhauling is a more in-depth service that includes both cleaning and repairing your air conditioner. It involves completely disassembling the unit to address internal issues and restore optimal performance.


While chemical cleaning focuses on cleaning accessible parts, an overhaul tackles the entire unit, including deep cleaning and part replacements.


How to Determine Which Service Your Aircon Needs

The depth of cleaning your aircon needs depends on its condition, which is why it’s best to refer to a professional to decide which is the best option. If there’s significant rust buildup, the professional technician may recommend a thorough overhaul cleaning, as this requires more time and effort than a quick chemical wash. However, if the unit shows general wear and tear without visible corrosion, a chemical cleaning might be enough to restore its performance.


Get Professional Aircon Services with 81 Aircon

81 Aircon is your trusted partner for all your aircon needs, whether if its chemical cleaning or chemical overhaul. We prioritise honesty, reliability, and exceptional service to build lasting relationships with our customers. 


Our skilled technicians are dedicated to providing transparent pricing, timely solutions, and preventive maintenance to keep your aircon operating efficiently. Contact us today to find out more.


Looking for Aircon Specialist? Contact Us Now!