What should an aircon installation quote include?

The units

An aircon quote that names only a brand or a system size is hard to compare, so ask for the exact models.

The Energy Label from the National Environment Agency (NEA) rates efficiency from 1 tick (Low) to 5 ticks (Excellent) and shows the aircon's full load cooling capacity in kW. For split and multi-split systems, the label is affixed to the outdoor unit and carries that unit's model number. Its annual energy cost uses fixed assumptions NEA states on the label, not your tariff.

• [ ] Indoor and outdoor model numbers. Both written in full, so you can match the outdoor model to its label.
• [ ] Cooling capacity in kW. NEA advises choosing the right capacity: oversized units cost more to run and may not dehumidify well, while undersized units do not cool or dehumidify adequately. Size each room with the aircon BTU calculator.
• [ ] Energy Label ticks. Appliances with more ticks are generally more energy efficient; see 5-tick vs 3-tick aircon.
• [ ] Inverter or non-inverter. The label lists split type (inverter) and split type (non-inverter) separately, so the quote should say which you are getting.

Installation work in an aircon installation quotation

Packages differ, so get the piping terms in writing.

• [ ] Pipe length. The length included in the price, and the rate for each extra length beyond it.

HDB's renovation guidelines make flat owners responsible for the proper installation, safety and stability of their air-conditioner. In an HDB flat, check that the quote covers these points:

• [ ] Installer training. The installer must be trained by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) as an air-conditioning condensing unit installer.
• [ ] Internal piping. All aircon piping runs internally, and the pipe joints are insulated.
• [ ] Condensate drain. Condensate discharges into a floor trap in your flat.
• [ ] Brackets and location. Ask where the condensing unit will go and how it will be mounted. Both must follow HDB's approved locations and methods (including the condensate pipe); check with your HDB Branch. Units cannot be placed along the common corridor, and the aircon ledge is only for the condensing unit.
• [ ] Building care. Rubber padding at the base of the condensing unit, no hacking through reinforced concrete and no vibration caused in the building.
• [ ] Installation report. Who will submit it to the HDB Branch within 14 days after installation.

For more detail, see HDB aircon installation rules.

Electrical work

Under HDB's guidelines, these points come before installation:

• [ ] Running current. The owner and installer check that the total running current of the condensing units does not exceed the approved electrical rating.
• [ ] Main switch rating. With a 30 amp main switch, a new 15A power point or 20A isolator for the aircon needs an electrical permit. With a 40 amp main switch, or a flat upgraded under the Main Upgrading Programme (MUP) or Home Improvement Programme (HIP), no permit is needed, subject to HDB's guidelines. If you need a permit, ask who will apply for it.
• [ ] New point or isolator. Whether a new 15A power point or 20A isolator is included or priced separately. See isolator installation cost for how that work is priced.

The Energy Market Authority (EMA) says electrical work at home should be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW). EMA says electrical work in an HDB flat needs a Licensed Electrician, the class of LEW approved for loads of up to 45kVA.

Price, GST and add-ons

The Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS) guide on fair trading for the renovation industry calls for quotes that are accurate, clear and itemised, with mandatory charges stated at the outset. It is aimed at renovation firms, but the same test helps here.

Only GST-registered businesses may charge GST. The Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) says they should quote final, GST-inclusive prices and may not quote prices without GST.

• [ ] Itemised lines. Units, installation, piping, electrical work and other charges shown separately.
• [ ] Mandatory charges. Stated at the outset, not added at the end.
• [ ] GST-inclusive price. If the company is GST-registered.
• [ ] Removal of old units. Whether it is included, if you need it.
• [ ] Trunking. How much is included, and the rate for more.
• [ ] Extra piping. The rate beyond the included length.

Ask for the aircon installation package details in writing. Prices depend on the job; see aircon installation cost for how pricing works.

Warranty and servicing

Ask for each warranty separately, because terms vary between brands.

• [ ] Manufacturer warranty. What the brand covers and for how long, in writing.
• [ ] Workmanship warranty. The installer's own warranty on the installation, as a separate line.
• [ ] Free servicing. Any free servicing, with the number of visits, in writing.
• [ ] Leaks. Who to call if the unit leaks or drips after installation, and whether that visit is covered.

Once the units are in, the aircon servicing checklist shows what a service visit should include.

Before you sign

Get two or three quotes for the same indoor and outdoor models, so the differences show up in the work and the extras rather than the hardware. Line them up item by item using how to compare home service quotes. To find more companies, browse aircon installation in the directory.

Questions