In Singapore's tropical climate, air conditioners work overtime - which means that their filters, coils, and drainage systems work just as hard. Over time, hidden mould colonies, clogged condensate drains, and dust-choked coils can turn your AC into a breeding ground for allergens and bacteria. All this can also cause a weak cooling performance for your aircon. Aircon steam cleaning is the solution!
In this article, we discuss what aircon steam cleaning is, its benefits, the DIY steam cleaning process, and who to trust with your AC in Singapore.
What Is Aircon Steam Cleaning?
Aircon Steam Cleaning is a process that uses high-temperature (150°C+) vapour to clean the aircon components. The process helps kill mould/bacteria without chemicals and loosens deep dirt in coils/drain pans. The process also helps sanitize hard-to-reach areas of the aircon, ensuring optimal performance and safety. Since the process does not use any harsh chemicals, it is best for homes with kids, pets, and allergy sufferers.
Why Steam Clean Your Aircon?
Steam cleaning is the #1 recommended deep-cleaning method for Singapore homes because it:
Kills 99.9% of mould & bacteria. This is crucial for humid climates like Singapore.
Removes stubborn dirt without harsh chemicals.
Improves airflow by unclogging condenser coils.
Is an eco-friendly process since it uses only water without any toxic residues
Helps prevent musty smells in HDB/condo units
For homes with asthma/allergy sufferers, it is recommended to steam clean your aircon every 6 months.
How Professionals Steam Clean Your Aircon (Step-by-Step)
Steam cleaning is the gold standard for aircon maintenance in Singapore as it goes far beyond basic DIY methods. Here's exactly what happens when you hire certified technicians for a professional-grade steam clean:
Step 1: Pre-Service Diagnostic Check (10-15 mins)
Before any cleaning begins, technicians:
Test cooling performance – Measures airflow temperature drop
Inspect for leaks – Checking refrigerant levels and drainage
Assess mould/bacteria – Use UV lights to spot hidden growth
Step 2: Safe Preparation (5 mins)
In the second step, the technicians will take measures to safely dismantle the aircon parts and isolate power at the circuit breaker for electrical safety. They will take out filters, fan blades, and front panels so everything can be cleaned effectively.
Step 3: Dry Vacuuming (10 mins per unit)
The next step is to vacuum the aircon. This step is important because dry cleaning first prevents steam from turning dust into mud-like sludge. For vacuuming, the technicians use industrial HEPA vacuums that remove loose dust/debris from:
Evaporator coils
Blower wheels
Drain pans
Air ducts (for centralized systems)
Step 4: Precision Steam Blasting (20-30 mins per unit)
Using 150°C, 60-100 psi steam guns, technicians:
Pre-treat stubborn areas – Apply eco-friendly degreaser to coils.
Steam-clean the components in this order:
Evaporator coils (kills mould in fin gaps)
Condensate drain pan (removes algae biofilm)
Blower fan (eliminates dust cakes)
Drain pipes (flushes out clogs)
Specialty attachments ensure:
No water damage to electronics
Complete coverage of coil interiors
Step 5: Manual Scrubbing (15 mins)
After steaming, technicians:
Hand-scrub remaining residue with soft brushes
Flush drain pipes with enzymatic cleaners
Deodorise with antimicrobial sprays
Step 6: Post-Cleaning Inspection (10 mins)
Finally, the team verifies and ensures that:
Cooling efficiency is restored
Drainage flow is optimal (500ml water test)
Mould has been eliminated (UV light re-check)
Optional Add-Ons
In some cases, you may opt for some optional add-ons for the aircon steam cleaning process. These include:
Coil protectant coating – Prevents future mould ($20/unit)
Antimicrobial fogging – Treats entire air path ($50/system)
UV light installation – Continuous sterilization ($120)
Total Time for Aircon Steam Cleaning: 1.5-2 Hours Per Unit
DIY Aircon Steam Cleaning (Safe for HDBs)
The process of aircon steam cleaning can also be done at home as a DIY project. This process involves the following steps.
What You'll Need
Handheld steam cleaner (150°C+ capable)
Soft nylon brushes (avoid metal to prevent coil damage)
Microfiber cloths (5-10 pieces)
Face mask & gloves (N95 recommended for mould protection)
Plastic drop cloth (to protect walls/floors)
Step-by-Step Process
1. Safety Preparation
Turn off the aircon power at the circuit breaker
Remove the front panel and air filters
Cover electrical components with plastic bags
2. Dry Cleaning First
Use a soft brush to remove loose dust from:
Evaporator coils
Fan blades
Drain pan
3. Steam Application
Hold the steamer nozzle 15-20cm from the components
Work in sections (30-45 seconds per area):
Coils (apply vertical strokes between fins)
Drain pan (focus on corners where mould grows)
Blower fan (keep rotating the blades while steaming)
4. Post-Cleaning Care
Wipe all surfaces with a dry microfiber cloth
Leave unit open to air-dry for 2+ hours
Reinstall filters and test the AC for effective operation.
Critical Mistakes to Avoid
Using tap water in steamer (this causes mineral buildup in the steamer container. Always use distilled water).
Holding the nozzle too close (this can bend delicate fins of the aircon unit)
Skipping drying time (this risks electrical damage)
Aircon Steam Cleaning Prices in Singapore (2025)
Service | Residential (HDB/Condo) | Commercial (Office/Shop) |
1x Split Unit | $80 - $120 | $150 - $200 |
Multi-Split (3x) | $200 - $300 | $350 - $500 |
Window Unit | $60 - $100 | N/A |
Steam Cleaning vs Chemical Wash vs Normal Cleaning
Method | Pros | Cons | Best For | Cost (SGD) |
Steam Cleaning | Kills mould, no chemicals | Can’t remove grease buildup | Allergy sufferers, HDBs | 80–150 |
Chemical Wash | Deep-cleans grease | Harsh fumes, 24h downtime | Commercial kitchens | 100–200 |
Normal Cleaning | Cheap, fast | Doesn’t kill mould | Monthly maintenance | 40–80 |
Verdict: Steam cleaning wins for healthier air and safety (ideal for kids/pets).
How Often Should You Steam Clean Your Aircon?
The frequency with which you steam clean your aircon depends on certain factors:
For a family with kids, steam cleaning is recommended every 6 months.
For someone living alone, they can steam clean their aircon yearly.
In a commercial setup, quarterly aircon steam cleaning is recommended.
Signs Your Aircon Needs Steam Cleaning
If you notice any of the following signs, it is a good idea to steam clean your aircon.
Musty odours
Weak airflow
Visible mould
Ready to Refresh Your Aircon?
If you think that your aircon’s efficiency has lowered, it may require steam cleaning. At 338 Aircon, we offer a wide range of premium aircon services in Singapore, including steam cleaning. Contact us today or call +65 8855 4141 for a free inspection and same-day service. At 338 Aircon, we service all Singapore areas: Tampines, Bishan, Jurong, Punggol & more!
338 Aircon Servicing Singapore provides an extensive range of Aircon Services including Aircon Servicing, Aircon Repairs, Aircon Installation of the best aircon brands, Chemical Overhaul, Gas Top-up, Aircon Leaking Water, and Aircon Not Cold Fix, and more. We have a team of professional technicians who are equipped with vast knowledge and experience in the Aircon industry.
We have over 15 years of experience in dealing with aircon works and have completed thousands of aircon works for both residential (Landed, Condo, and HDB) and commercial. We are a highly recommended Aircon Company in Singapore, with many delighted customers and reviews over the years on Google and Facebook.
WhatsApp us at +65 9222 4141 for a transparent quotation and honest pricing for all your aircon needs or Call us at +65 9222 4141. We offer a fast and efficient service to serve any of your aircon needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is aircon steam cleaning better than aircon chemical wash?
Yes, steam cleaning is better than a chemical wash in terms of mould removal. However, to remove grease from the aircon (e.g., kitchen ACs), chemical wash should be preferred.
Can steam cleaning damage my aircon?
If done properly, steam cleaning cannot damage the aircon. If you take note of the following measures, there will be no damage to the aircon.
Avoid electrical components
Use proper pressure (60-100 PSI)
Ensure complete drying
Why is professional cleaning better than DIY?
Professional aircon steam cleaning offers some key advantages over DIY:
Industrial steamers (150°C vs. 100°C for home units)
Full disassembly of internal components
Drain pipe flushing with air pressure
Post-cleaning inspection with thermal imaging
6-month warranty against mould regrowth
What are signs my aircon needs steam cleaning?
Allergy flare-ups when AC runs
Weak airflow despite clean filters
Musty "dirty sock" smell
Excess condensation on vents
Visible black spots (mould)
Is steam cleaning safe for all aircon types?
Yes, steam cleaning is generally considered safe for all types of aircons except for:
Very old units (>10 years) with brittle components
Window units with electrical parts near coils
Systems with existing refrigerant leaks
How long does steam cleaning take?
It normally takes 1–2 hours for a split unit steam cleaning process to complete.
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