Why Is My Aircon Not Cold Even After Cleaning?
Introduction
Singapore’s humid heat doesn’t take a break, so when your aircon starts blowing warm air even after a recent cleaning, frustration sets in fast. Many households and offices rely on air conditioning daily, and it’s easy to assume that cleaning alone should solve cooling issues. But if the air still isn’t cold, there’s usually something deeper going on beneath the shiny filters.
Singapore Context
In Singapore, air conditioners work overtime. HDB flats often have compact bedrooms with wall-mounted split units, condos feature central systems that cool open-plan living spaces, while landed homes or offices may use multiple condensers or VRV systems. This variety means each setup has its own weak points.
High humidity makes coils trap moisture, which attracts dust faster. Combine that with frequent usage — sometimes 10–12 hours a day — and you’ve got machines that age faster than in cooler climates. Cleaning helps, but it’s not the whole story.
Why Regular Aircon Cleaning Matters
Cleaning removes dust, mold, and bacteria that block airflow. When airflow is restricted, the evaporator coil can’t absorb enough heat, leading to weak cooling or even ice buildup. Regular cleaning also reduces energy consumption, prevents foul odors, and keeps your system running quietly.
But if you’ve just cleaned your aircon and it’s still not cooling properly, there are several possible culprits.
1. Low or Leaking Refrigerant Gas
The most common cause of weak cooling in Singapore is low refrigerant pressure. Even a tiny leak in the copper piping can drop cooling performance dramatically. The refrigerant (often R32 or R410A) is what absorbs heat from the air — if there’s not enough, the system can’t chill effectively.
Signs of a gas leak:
- Air feels cool for a few minutes, then turns warm
- Ice forms on the indoor coil or outdoor pipe
- Compressor runs non-stop but room temperature doesn’t drop
Fix: A certified technician will perform a pressure test and top up gas if needed. In cases of slow leaks, a proper leak check and seal are essential — otherwise, the issue returns within weeks.
2. Dirty or Faulty Condenser Unit
Many homeowners clean only the indoor unit, overlooking the outdoor condenser. The condenser’s job is to release heat. When its fins are clogged with dirt or leaves, or the fan motor slows down, heat can’t escape — the system overheats and cooling efficiency drops.
Condo and HDB condensers often sit on service ledges or balconies, exposed to the elements. Over time, rust and corrosion also reduce heat transfer.
3. Compressor Problems
If your compressor is wearing out or failing electrically, it won’t build enough pressure in the refrigerant circuit. No pressure means no cold air. This issue is more common in systems older than 8–10 years or in commercial setups that run nearly nonstop.
Typical signs:
- Clicking sounds when starting up
- Compressor stops shortly after turning on
- Sudden spike in power bills
A technician can confirm this by checking amperage draw and compressor health.
4. Thermostat or Sensor Malfunction
If the thermostat misreads the room temperature, it may signal the system to stop cooling prematurely. For example, a loose sensor touching the coil instead of measuring ambient air can confuse the controller.
You might also have incorrect mode settings — make sure your unit is on Cool mode (snowflake icon) rather than Dry or Fan.
5. Blocked Airflow
Sometimes, even after “cleaning,” filters aren’t fully washed, or blower wheels stay dusty. A half-cleaned blower can still choke the airflow. Also check:
- Air outlet flaps stuck partially closed
- Indoor coil fins bent or blocked
- Return vents covered by furniture
Restricted airflow reduces the cooling effect, even if refrigerant levels are fine.
6. Drainage or Condensation Issues
A clogged drainpipe or poor drainage design can cause water to backflow, freezing the coil. When ice builds up, airflow weakens and cooling stops entirely. Regular flushing helps, but older PVC drain pipes in HDBs are prone to algae buildup.
Step-by-Step: How Professionals Diagnose the Issue
Here’s what a certified technician in Singapore typically checks during a no-cooling service call:
| Step | Diagnostic Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visual inspection | Look for ice, oil stains (gas leaks), loose wires |
| 2 | Temperature and pressure test | Confirm gas level and cooling efficiency |
| 3 | Fan coil & blower check | Ensure proper rotation and clean fins |
| 4 | Condenser performance test | Verify outdoor fan and compressor function |
| 5 | Drainage check | Prevent backflow and condensation issues |
| 6 | Electrical & sensor test | Identify faulty thermostat or PCB issues |
This process usually takes 45–90 minutes, depending on system type and accessibility.
DIY vs Professional Cleaning
DIY cleaning (filter washing, mild vacuuming) keeps your aircon fresh for a while. But deep cleaning — especially chemical wash or overhaul — requires removing panels and flushing the coil and blower. Without that, you can’t access internal buildup that truly affects cooling.
When to call a professional:
- Aircon still warm after filter cleaning
- Water dripping or unusual noise
- Ice on the pipes or coil
- Airflow seems weaker despite clean filters
Professionals from ACX.WORKS use specialized chemical solutions and pressure washers to restore full cooling performance safely, especially for multi-split or ceiling cassette systems.
Signs Your Aircon Needs Immediate Attention
- Cool air stops suddenly
- Fan runs but compressor doesn’t
- Air feels humid instead of crisp
- Condensation on walls or near vents
- Burning smell or beeping error codes
Ignoring these early symptoms can damage the compressor — the most expensive part of your aircon.
Health and Comfort Benefits
A properly cooled room does more than provide comfort. It controls humidity, which discourages mold growth and dust mites — key concerns in Singapore’s climate. Consistent temperatures also protect electronics and furniture from moisture damage.
Cost & Frequency in Singapore
Prices vary by service depth and unit type:
| Service Type | HDB/Condo (per unit) | Landed/Office (per unit) |
|---|---|---|
| General Cleaning | SGD 35–50 | SGD 45–65 |
| Chemical Wash | SGD 60–85 | SGD 70–100 |
| Chemical Overhaul | SGD 120–150 | SGD 130–180 |
| Gas Top-Up | SGD 60–120 (R32/R410A) | SGD 80–150 |
Recommended schedule:
- General cleaning: every 3–4 months
- Chemical wash: every 6–12 months
- Gas check: once a year
Frequent use or high humidity areas (like ground-floor HDB units) may require shorter intervals.
Key Benefits Summary
| Issue Solved | Result |
|---|---|
| Low gas pressure fixed | Restores cooling and efficiency |
| Condenser cleaned | Better heat discharge |
| Proper drainage | Prevents freezing and leaks |
| Sensor recalibration | Accurate temperature control |
| Full chemical overhaul | Like-new performance |
FAQ
1. I just cleaned my aircon, but it’s still not cold. Should I top up gas immediately?
Not necessarily. Have a technician check pressure levels first — topping up without diagnosing a leak wastes money.
2. How do I know if it’s a gas leak or electrical fault?
If the fan runs but no cold air comes out, and the compressor stays on, it’s likely gas. If the unit shuts down randomly or flashes an error code, it’s more likely electrical.
3. Can I clean the outdoor condenser myself?
You can gently vacuum or wipe dust off, but deep cleaning or high-pressure washing should be done by a technician for safety.
4. What’s the difference between chemical wash and chemical overhaul?
A chemical wash cleans coils and filters without removing the fan coil unit. An overhaul dismantles the unit completely for deep restoration — ideal for severe clogs or long-term neglect.
5. How often should office aircons be serviced?
Monthly or bi-monthly, since commercial units run longer hours and handle larger spaces.
6. My aircon drips water after cleaning — is that normal?
A little moisture is fine for a day or two. If dripping continues, the drainpipe may be partially blocked.
7. How long should a well-maintained aircon last in Singapore?
Usually 8–12 years, depending on usage, environment, and servicing frequency.
Conclusion
If your aircon isn’t cooling even after cleaning, don’t panic — it’s often a fixable issue like low gas, condenser blockage, or sensor malfunction. Routine cleaning is just one piece of the puzzle; a full diagnostic service ensures your system runs efficiently year-round.
For reliable, transparent servicing across Singapore — from HDB flats to landed homes and offices — visit ACX.WORKS or explore their Aircon Cleaning solutions to keep your cooling system truly performing at its best.
