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It is no secret that the air conditioner is the one thing that helps us beat the heat away in Singapore's hot and humid climate. As a result, this home appliance has become one of the most frequently used appliances in homes. If you’re living in an HDB flat, like many Singaporeans, you’re likely aware that installing multiple air conditioner compressors in these units can be quite challenging due to the strict regulations and guidelines involved.
Want to know more about this? Here’s a thorough guide to help you navigate the process!
What Are HDB Regulations for Aircon Compressors Installation?
Although HDB allows the installation of air conditioners in most flats, the number of compressors and their weight are strictly regulated by the Housing Development Board to ensure safety and structural integrity.
If you’re living in flats with an air conditioner ledge or service yard, you can install up to two compressor units without needing a permit as long as their combined weight doesn't exceed 110kg. But if you want to install more than two compressors, or if the combined weight exceeds this limit, you will need to get approval from HDB and potentially need to undergo an assessment by a qualified person such as an architect or engineer.
Additionally, there are other important requirements for installing multiple aircon compressors in HDB, and here are the regulations to keep in mind!
Compressor Placement
The first thing to keep in mind is that the installation must be carried out on the designated air conditioner ledge or reinforced service yard floor. Air conditioner compressors can’t be installed on walls or areas that are not meant to hold the weight due to the risk of structural damage.
Additionally, if your HDB flat does not come with a designated air conditioner platform, you might need to install the air conditioner brackets by yourself. Ensure that you install the brackets using stainless steel and follow HDB’s guidelines for height clearance and water drainage requirements.
Electrical Requirements
The compressor unit typically requires either a 15A three-pin plug or a 20A isolator switch. If these are not present in your flat, you will need to hire a licensed electrician to install them, which could incur additional costs depending on the complexity of the installation.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
If you’re planning to install multiple air conditioners in your HDB, it is also essential to determine the correct British Thermal Unit (BTU) for each room to ensure efficient cooling. For example:
- 9000 BTU for bedrooms (around 15-18 sqm)
- 12000 to 24000 BTU for living rooms
Do keep in mind that choosing the wrong BTU can either lead to inadequate cooling or inefficient energy use.
Noise and Maintenance
Last but not least, the placement of the compressor should also take into account the noise levels. Even though HDB flats are designed to minimize noise between each neighbor, it’s still important to be mindful when positioning the air conditioner compressor in a way that will not disturb your neighbors. Also, ensure easy access for future maintenance, as this ensures the long-term efficiency of your air conditioning system.
Why Complying with HDB Guidelines Is Important?
HDB strictly enforces compliance with installation regulations to ensure the safety of both the unit owner and neighbors. Any violations can lead to penalties of up to S$5,000 or imprisonment —depending on the severity of the violation.
Key Takeaway
Installing multiple air conditioner compressors in HDB flats requires careful planning and strict adherence to HDB’s guidelines. Thus, it’s crucial to remember all the requirements that need to be followed before deciding to install multiple air conditioner compressors in your HDB flat.
Additionally, it’s important to engage a licensed and reliable air conditioner service provider to install your aircon compressor properly. Our team at Luce will be able to help you out, and prevent any issues due to installation from happening!
