Demand for air-con servicing rises as haze and heat hit Singapore

As Singapore experiences hazier conditions and higher temperatures, more homes and businesses are checking and booking air-conditioner servicing. This explainer outlines what happened, who is affected, and practical steps people can take.

What happened and why

Demand for air-conditioner servicing rose in September as the air quality index (PSI) entered the unhealthy range, with continued growth into October. This trend comes from a combination of hotter weather and hazier skies, prompting more people to ensure their cooling systems work well, filter dirt, and maintain efficiency. Job postings for air-con technicians more than doubled, reflecting higher demand, though firms report shortages of qualified workers. Prices and staffing are being kept steady by some firms for now.

Who is affected

Homeowners and renters, as well as commercial premises like offices and shops, are seeing more requests for servicing and inspections. People may notice poorer cooling, dirtier filters, or spottier sleep comfort due to inefficient units. Businesses that rely on air-conditioning for customers or staff are also affected by increased service needs and potential staffing constraints in the industry.

Practical next steps

If you own or manage air-conditioners, consider these steps: (1) Schedule a maintenance check before peak usage: a technician can clean filters, purge dust, and verify refrigerant levels. (2) Replace or clean filters regularly to keep airflow and cooling efficiency. (3) Note any unusual noises, weak cooling, or uneven temperatures and report them to a service provider. (4) For households with vulnerable members (young children, elderly, or health conditions), ensure air quality and cooling remain reliable during haze days. (5) If you need technicians, compare offers from a few providers to find a balance of price, availability, and fit for your unit type.

Limits and questions

While demand is rising, the sources warn of a skill shortage among technicians. This could affect wait times or availability of appointments. If you cannot secure immediate service, consider interim steps like routine simple maintenance you can perform safely, and prepare a list of issues to discuss with a technician when one becomes available. For ongoing haze and heat, staying informed about local air-quality advisories and adjusting cooling usage accordingly can help manage both comfort and energy use.

Information and responsibility notice: This article is general information based on the cited material available when published. It is not legal, tax, immigration, medical, financial, banking, or investment advice; it does not create a professional-client relationship; and it is not a guarantee of outcome, availability, accuracy, or eligibility. Rules, schedules, prices, and third-party information can change. Confirm material decisions with the relevant authority and an appropriately qualified adviser before acting.