New aircon installation vs replacing an old unit
"Installation" covers two fairly different jobs. A new installation means putting aircon into a space that has no existing system, which involves running new piping, wiring, drainage, and mounting brackets from scratch, plus deciding on unit placement and number of fan coils. A replacement means swapping out an old unit for a new one where piping, wiring, and outdoor unit location largely already exist.
Replacement jobs are usually faster because the trunking and piping routes are already there, though a contractor may recommend replacing old copper piping or drain hoses if they are corroded or undersized for a more efficient new unit. New installations take longer and involve more site assessment: wall or ceiling condition, outdoor unit placement (especially in condos and HDB flats with regulations on external fixtures), and load calculation for the room size.
Telling a contractor upfront which situation you are in helps them quote and schedule correctly, since a replacement quote based on reusing existing piping can be wrong if that piping actually needs redoing.
What it costs
Replacement using existing piping and brackets is generally cheaper and faster than a fresh install, since less material and labour goes into pipework. Costs rise for replacement if old piping, wiring or drainage need to be redone rather than reused. New installations vary by number of indoor units (system 2, 3, 4), piping run length, and any wall/ceiling work needed to conceal trunking.
Top 3 by our score
Ranked from our published scoring of public Google reviews for aircon installation.
- 1. Repair.sg Handyman Singapore955.0★ · 2817 reviews
- 94
- 3. LM Brothers Aircond Pte Ltd945.0★ · 458 reviews
FAQ
- Can I reuse my old piping when replacing my aircon?
- Sometimes, if it is in good condition and matches the new unit's refrigerant type and sizing. Many contractors will inspect and recommend against reusing old piping if it is corroded or was sized for R22 systems being replaced with R32.
- Is replacement always cheaper than a new install?
- Usually yes, because the piping, wiring and drain routes already exist. It is not automatic though, especially if the old infrastructure needs to be replaced too.
- Do I need approval to install a new outdoor unit in an HDB flat or condo?
- HDB and many condo management corporations have rules on outdoor unit placement and bracket mounting, so check with your town council or MCST before a new installation.