Buying a new aircon can be overwhelming, especially for new homeowners in Singapore. With so many unfamiliar air conditioning terminologies floating around—like BTU, inverter, system, and more—it’s easy to feel lost. This blog breaks down the essential AC terms so you can understand your unit better, make smart choices, and get the most from your cooling system.
Here’s a handy alphabetical list of key aircon terms every homeowner should know, explained simply and clearly for the Singapore context.
The aircon filter traps dust, pollen, and other particles to keep your indoor air clean and your unit running efficiently. Regular filter cleaning or replacement is important to maintain airflow and prevent buildup, which can affect cooling performance.
BTU measures the cooling capacity of an aircon system—essentially, how much heat the unit can remove in an hour. In Singapore’s tropical climate, choosing an aircon BTU that matches your room size is crucial for effective cooling without wasting energy. An aircon BTU meeting your space’s needs ensures comfort and efficiency.
The compressor is the core of your aircon system, responsible for circulating refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units. It works by compressing the refrigerant, allowing it to absorb heat from your room and release it outdoors. When your compressor is in good condition, your aircon cools efficiently and runs more smoothly—helping you avoid high energy bills and costly breakdowns.
This rating indicates how energy-efficient an aircon is, often shown as EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). Higher ratings mean the unit cools better while using less electricity—important for keeping your energy bills in check in Singapore’s hot weather.
The FCU is the indoor unit that blows cooled air into your room. It includes the fan and evaporator coil, and its performance directly affects your comfort. Clean FCUs mean better airflow, fewer odours, and a longer-lasting aircon system.
A heat pump allows an aircon to both cool and heat a space by reversing the refrigerant flow. While heating is rarely needed in Singapore, some premium systems include this feature for complete climate control or specific commercial use.
An aircon inverter adjusts the compressor speed to maintain a stable room temperature without frequent on-off cycling. Inverter models are more energy-efficient and quieter—ideal for Singapore homeowners looking to save on electricity in the long term.
Refrigerant is the chemical fluid that flows through your aircon system to absorb heat indoors and release it outdoors. Common refrigerants in Singapore include R32 and R410A. Using the right refrigerant type is essential for performance, efficiency, and environmental safety.
An aircon system refers to the complete setup, including indoor and outdoor units, piping, trunking, and electrical components. In Singapore, common types include single-split, multi-split, and central systems. Understanding your system type helps when servicing or upgrading your unit.
Trunking is the protective casing that covers your aircon’s wiring and piping, keeping them safe and tidy. A well-installed trunking not only protects your system from damage and wear but also keeps your home looking neat—especially important for HDBs and condos in Singapore
For many Singapore homeowners, air conditioning is a daily necessity—but the technical language can make it hard to choose or maintain the right system. Learning the key air conditioning terminology helps demystify the process and gives you more control over your home’s comfort and energy use.
By understanding these terms, you’ll be able to:
Whether you’re installing a new unit, booking a servicing appointment, or shopping during an aircon promo, being familiar with these terms empowers you to make the best choices for your home.
Clear communication and technical expertise are essential when it comes to maintaining or installing an aircon system. As a trusted aircon company in Singapore, 81 Aircon provides straightforward guidance, careful installation, and reliable servicing across a wide range of units.
Whether you're looking to buy an aircon in Singapore, book regular maintenance, or explore the latest aircon promos, our team is here to support you in making informed, practical decisions for your home.
If you need a consultation, installation quote, or servicing appointment, contact 81 Aircon—we’re here to help ensure your aircon performs as it should.
