Aircon trunking is the pipes and conduits used to connect the indoor unit of an air conditioning system to its outdoor compressor. These pipes carry refrigerant, ensuring that cool air circulates throughout the system. In Singapore HDB (Housing & Development Board) flats, the trunking is often installed along the walls and ceilings, which can appear unsightly and disrupt the space's aesthetic.
While the trunking is essential for the operation of the air conditioning system, it can be a visual distraction in a well-designed home. As a result, you might want to look for ways to hide or conceal the trunking to maintain a clean and organized appearance. Contrary to what some may think, hiding aircon trunking is not difficult with the right strategy. There are several methods available that you can use to hide aircon trunking in your HDB!
How to Hide Aircon Trunking in HDB?
Hiding aircon trunking can be easily done with the right method, however, if you are living in Singapore HDB it is important to keep in mind that there might be certain regulations that you have to follow.
Thus, before embarking on any renovation work, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the HDB regulations to ensure that all modifications are safe and functional, and do not compromise the structural integrity of the building.
1. Use Wall Paneling
Wall paneling is one of the most common and seamless ways to hide aircon trunking. Thus, this can be a great idea to implement in your HDB. Additionally, this method will not only conceal the trunking but also add insulation and soundproofing benefits.
But keep in mind, when concealing trunking with wall paneling, make sure to use non-combustible materials. You can use materials like wood, PVC, or gypsum board for wall paneling. Do not use traditional panels such as FRP or drywall as they are vulnerable to flames. This will ensure your home remains compliant with fire safety standards.
2. Painting the Trunking
If you prefer a simpler approach, painting the aircon trunking to match the color of the walls is a low-cost and easy solution! This helps the trunking blend into the background, especially if the trunking is positioned along the ceiling or edges of the walls.
3. Use Fabric Wraps
Another creative and quick way to do this is wrapping the trunking in fabric. This method can give your space a soft, cozy feel. Additionally, it’s also a highly customizable method, since you can choose fabric patterns that suit your décor.
4. Decorative Elements
The next way you can hide aircon trunking in HDB is by disguising it with artwork, shelves, or any other decorative elements that you have. This is not only a creative way to conceal trunking but also adds functionality to your space —especially if you use shelves to hide them away. With the right decorative elements, you can ensure that the unsightly trunking is out of sight and out of mind!
5. Wainscoting
Wall paneling or wainscoting is a traditional decorative technique that involves adding wooden or PVC paneling to the lower portion of walls. It is a popular design feature that can also serve functional purposes, such as hiding unsightly elements like aircon trunking.
In the HDB flat, where space is limited, wainscoting offers a stylish way to conceal aircon trunking. The panels cover the lower portion of the walls, allowing the trunking to blend seamlessly with the overall design of the room. Often, cladding the aircon trunking with wooden panels offers a sleek, modern look.
You can use various materials, including wood, MDF, or PVC, depending on the design and durability you need. PVC is a good choice for areas prone to moisture, like bedrooms or living rooms. For HDB it’s crucial to ensure that the installation of wainscoting does not involve structural modifications, such as hacking or drilling into load-bearing walls to avoid fines.
6. False Ceiling
In HDB flats, a false ceiling is a highly effective way to hide aircon trunking as it can completely conceal the aircon trunking. The false ceiling provides a gap where the trunking can run undetected, keeping the room’s appearance clean and uncluttered. However, while installing false ceilings to hide trunking is common, it must meet certain safety guidelines. Ensure that the false ceiling does not interfere with ventilation, fire safety systems, or access to essential fixtures like electrical points.
Additionally, HDB prohibits unauthorized drilling or hacking of walls and floors, particularly structural walls, as this can weaken the building's integrity. If you're considering creating a false ceiling or modifying walls to hide trunking, make sure no hacking of load-bearing walls is involved.
7. Rope Lights
For a stylish and modern touch, you can use rope lights to line the aircon trunking. This creative method will not only help to hide away the air conditioner trunking, but it can also elevate the decor of your HDB as it will add soft lighting to your space and create a cozy atmosphere. Rope lights are particularly very useful to use for the room as it certainly can elevate the room design and comfort level!
Key Takeaway
When choosing a method to hide your air conditioner trunking, it’s essential to ensure compliance with HDB regulations to avoid any issues. These ideas that we have curated, can be an inspiration for anyone who currently is looking for effective ways to hide aircon trunking without compromising safety in your HDB flat!
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