10 best aircon to buy in Singapore (& minimise your electricity bills)

It’s always aircon season in Singapore. Who doesn’t love that cool bite on the skin when we step into a nicely-chilled room? You need the best aircon in Singapore to stay cool… without setting fire to your wallet. Use this guide to:

spend as little as possible on the right aircon
get a system powerful enough for your home
moderate your electricity bills

Don’t be misled by a smooth-talking sales rep— we show you all the things you should look for when buying an air conditioner.

Choosing the best aircon

When choosing an aircon, you should consider these 9 points. The first 3 will go a long way in reducing your electricity bills.

Cooling capacity: Air conditioner cooling capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The right BTU rating— not too high or too low— cools well without excessive energy costs.

First, calculate the square footage of the room and multiply by 65.
For a shaded room, decrease that number by 10%.
For a sunny room, increase it by 10%.
Add 4,000 BTUs for a kitchen A/C.
Add 600 BTUs per person if more than 2 people will be in the room regularly.

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio and a higher rating indicates better energy efficiency. A 1-point increase in EER cuts about 10% off your electricity bill. However, models with higher EER are more expensive.
Inverter: Inverter air conditioners regulate compressor speed for precise temperature control and better energy efficiency.
Air Quality: Some air conditioners come with additional features to improve indoor air quality, such as air purifiers, dehumidifiers and filters.
Noise levels: Noise can be a factor for air conditioners in bedrooms or studies. A lower decibel rating means quieter operation.
Features & controls: Programmable timers, adjustable fan speed, sleep modes, and Wi-Fi connectivity help you maintain a cool home without crazy energy bills.
Installation & maintenance: Both installation and maintenance can be expensive. Look for installation-included packages and find out servicing costs for your brand and model.
Brand & warranty: Some air conditioner brands are better for reliability and longevity. A comprehensive, long-term warranty is important.
Budget: A reliable brand and model with high EER and energy-saving features may be more expensive to buy but will make up for it in long-term energy and maintenance costs.