COMMERCESTAR ENGINEERING PTE LTD
Residential Air-Conditioning Installation – FAQ & Service Guide (Online Purchase)
This FAQ is designed to answer the most common questions homeowners ask when purchasing an air-conditioning system and installation online. It explains our installation types, what’s included/excluded, materials used, process, scheduling, warranty, and common site considerations (HDB/Condo/Landed).
1) Buying Online
- Browse and select your preferred aircon system on our website
- Choose your installation type (Replacement Only / HDB Full Install/ Condo Full Install)
- For Landed Installations, please contact us directly to arrange for a site survey and quotation directly
- Add optional upgrades (if available)
- Add to cart → checkout → fill in contact + address
- Make payment securely
- Receive order confirmation
✅ After you place the order, we will contact you within 1 working day to arrange a complimentary site survey and confirm installation dates.
Not necessary. Our online listing is to secure your order and preferred package.
Your complimentary site survey is where we confirm:
- piping route and lengths
- trunking layout
- power point / isolator needs
- condenser placement constraints
- any additional works required
We proceed only after scope and schedule are confirmed.
Yes. Most customers do this. After purchase, we will contact you within 1 working day to plan:
- site survey date (first)
- installation date (after survey confirmation)
If possible, prepare:
- photos of each room’s FCU location
- photo of existing condenser location (if replacement)
- number of indoor units (System 2/3/4/5)
- property type (HDB/Condo/Landed)
- whether you want concealed or exposed trunking
- any renovation timeline (if applicable)
2) Installation Types (Very Important)
We generally provide the following installation categories:
- Replacement Installation
- HDB Full Installation
- Condo Full Installation (including EC/DBSS)
- Landed Full Installation
- Commercial / Industrial / MCST Projects
For commercial buildings, industrial premises, offices, retail spaces, and MCST-managed properties, installation scope, technical requirements, and approval processes may differ from residential projects. These projects are usually customised based on site conditions, building regulations, and management requirements.
Customers with commercial, industrial, or MCST-related installations are encouraged to contact us directly for a detailed site assessment and customised quotation.
Your property type and site conditions will determine the most suitable installation option. Our team will advise accordingly after the site survey.
Replacement means replacing the indoor fan coils + condenser while reusing existing piping/trunking/wiring, subject to inspection and compatibility.
Best for:
- existing system still in good condition
- no major leakage/contamination
- piping suitable and compatible with new system
Typically includes:
- dismantle & disposal of old units
- installation of new units
- connection to existing piping
- vacuuming + basic flushing (where applicable)
- commissioning & performance check
Typically not included:
- replacement of old piping/insulation/trunking
- rerouting or concealment works
- electrical upgrades
⚠️ Important: Reused materials are not covered under workmanship warranty.
A full installation means installing a complete new piping/drainage/trunking system (exposed trunking standard), plus new FCUs and condenser.
Best for:
- old system is aging (8–10+ years)
- existing piping leaking/contaminated
- you want a proper full refresh with new materials
Typically includes:
- new copper piping + insulation
- new drainage pipe
- new trunking (standard routing)
- dismantle & disposal (if replacing old system)
- vacuuming & pressure test
- commissioning and testing
Typically not included:
- hacking / concealed piping works
- false ceiling works
- painting beyond touch-ups
- electrical DB upgrades (if needed)
- Stainless Steel bracket for condenser
Condo full install is designed for condominium rules and commonly includes concealed routing needs and management requirements.
Best for:
- concealed piping routing
- renovation phase (ceiling open)
- MCST rules and access requirements
Typically includes:
- concealed copper piping + insulation
- concealed drainage routing (where applicable)
- ceiling cutting/patch-up (subject to scope)
- basic repainting (white touch-up, where applicable)
- protection for common areas/lift (where required)
- support for technical documentation if needed
- multiple trips if project requires staged works
Typically not included:
- MCST administrative fees (if any)
- custom carpentry/feature wall modifications
- extensive repainting/finishing beyond touch-up
Landed installations are often customised due to longer piping routes, multiple floors, and special mounting considerations.
Best for:
- multi-storey homes
- longer piping distances
- special condenser placement
- external trunking and weatherproof routing
Typically includes:
- custom routing plan after survey
- vacuuming/pressure test and commissioning
- concealed copper piping + insulation
- concealed drainage routing (where applicable)
- ceiling cutting/patch-up (subject to scope)
- basic repainting (white touch-up, where applicable)
- support for technical documentation if needed
- multiple trips if project requires staged works
Typically not included:
- scaffolding (if required)
- major structural works
- hacking and plastering works (unless quoted)
- Stainless Steel brackets
Contact us for Site survey for a direct Quotation.
3) What’s Included vs Not Included
Most packages include:
- workmanship labour
- standard routing and installation consumables
- vacuuming and pressure test
- commissioning & basic function checks
- dismantling and disposal of old units (where applicable)
- complimentary site survey before installation
Final scope depends on the chosen package and site survey.
Common exclusions (chargeable if needed):
- electrical works (power points, isolators, DB rewiring)
- hacking, coring, drilling through structural elements
- false ceiling works / carpentry / feature walls
- repainting beyond basic touch-up
- scaffolding / special access equipment
- MCST/management admin fees
- extra piping/trunking beyond package allowances
- relocation of existing units/piping routes
We will advise after the survey and obtain your approval before proceeding.
4) Materials We Use (Quality & Transparency)
We use premium-grade materials commonly expected for reliable installations:
- Copper piping: 21 SWG (0.81mm)
- Insulation: ½” K-Flex Titan Class “0”
- Trunking: Litaflex UPVC trunking
- Drainage: Litaflex UPVC 16mm drainage pipe
- Wiring: Sigma / Keystone (Singapore Brand wires)
Materials affect:
- long-term durability
- condensation control
- efficiency
- risk of leaks
- neatness and finishing
We prioritise reliability and clean workmanship—especially important for concealed works.
5) Site Survey (Complimentary) & Why It’s Required
A site survey prevents surprises. We confirm:
- piping route and required length
- trunking layout and finishing
- condenser location and brackets needed
- drainage fall direction (to prevent backflow/leaks)
- electrical points/isolators requirement
- access constraints (height/ledge/structure)
This allows accurate final confirmation before installation.
We will contact you within 1 working day after your online order to arrange the survey date.
6) Scheduling & Timeline
Typical lead time (depends on season):
- Off-peak: 3–7 working days
- Peak season: 7–14 working days
Survey comes first, then installation scheduling.
Typical duration:
- System 1–2: 5-6 hours
- System 3–4: 1 day
- Condo Full install / complex routing: 1–2 days
- Landed Installation- Depending on Renovation Progress / how many aircon units that we are installing
Actual duration depends on site complexity and access.
Yes, homeowner or authorised representative should be present to:
- confirm FCU positioning
- approve trunking route
- verify completion and testing
7) Price, Add-On Works & “Hidden Charges” Concerns
No. Additional works only apply if site conditions require them, and we will:
- explain the reason
- quote clearly
- proceed only after your approval
Examples:
- additional piping length beyond package
- condenser bracket
- extra trunking rerouting
- power point / isolator installation
- drainage rerouting due to fall constraints
- high-level access or special mounting
All will be confirmed during survey.
8) Warranty (Product & Workmanship)
We provide:
- Manufacturer warranty (brand-dependent)
- Workmanship warranty (depending on installation type)
Typical coverage includes:
- compressor: up to 5 years (brand dependent)
- spare parts: up to 1 year (brand dependent)
Manufacturer warranty claims are subject to the brand’s assessment.
Commercestar assists as a facilitator, and brand terms apply.
For full installation, workmanship warranty generally covers:
- gas leakage due to installation joints
- condensation caused by installation-related issues
- drainage issues caused by improper installation routing
For replacement jobs, workmanship warranty is limited to new joints/connections only.
Common exclusions:
- lack of servicing / clogged drainage from poor maintenance
- misuse or abnormal operation conditions
- wear and tear / aging insulation
- reused old piping defects (replacement installs)
- third-party repairs/modifications
- power surges, lightning, floods, disasters
9) After-Sales & Servicing
Yes. We offer:
- general servicing
- chemical wash
- chemical overhaul
- maintenance packages
Regular servicing every 3–6 months is recommended.
It helps prevent:
- water leakage
- reduced cooling performance
- foul smell
- coil freezing
- higher power consumption
- unnecessary breakdowns
10) Common Customer Questions (Real-Life Concerns)
Air-conditioning performance depends on factors such as room heat load, insulation, system capacity, and outdoor conditions. Setting the temperature extremely low (e.g. 19°C) does not significantly speed up cooling, but instead causes the system to run longer and consume more electricity.
For comfort, efficiency, and system longevity, the National Environment Agency (NEA) recommends setting air-conditioners at 25°C or higher to reduce energy consumption and improve sustainability.
As a general guideline:
- 23°C to 26°C provides a good balance between comfort and efficiency
- Around 25°C is optimal for energy savings
- Using a fan together with air-conditioning can improve air circulation and cooling comfort
Operating at excessively low temperatures may also increase wear on components and raise utility costs without improving cooling performance.
Please share your renovation timeline with us in advance. For concealed or renovation-related works, installation may be carried out in stages (e.g. piping and drainage installation first, followed by indoor and outdoor unit installation at a later stage).
Our team will plan the installation schedule after the complimentary site survey and coordinate with your interior designer (ID) or main contractor where necessary to ensure smooth integration with your renovation timeline and site progress.
This helps to minimise delays, avoid rework, and ensure proper installation quality.
It depends on site conditions and renovation works. Concealed works typically require ceiling or box-up, which is usually quoted separately. Our survey will confirm feasibility.
For BTOs doing concealed Box-up pipings, please refer to our Condo Full install rates.
Yes, installation typically involves drilling. We aim to keep work tidy, protect surrounding areas, and clean up after work.
Yes, subject to site feasibility and regulatory approval. Relocation of condenser units, installation of an additional outdoor unit, or major rerouting of piping in HDB flats must comply with HDB and BCA guidelines to ensure safety, structural integrity, and proper ventilation.
Such works are usually considered additional services and will be assessed during our site survey.
Where required, Commercestar Engineering will assist with:
- Technical assessment and feasibility checks
- Preparation of necessary drawings and documentation - Fees applicable
- Submission for HDB approval (if applicable)- Fees applicable
- Compliance with BCA and relevant authority requirements
For HDB rental flats, additional approval from HDB and/or the Town Council may be required prior to any modification works. Written consent from the flat owner or managing authority may also be necessary.
Please note that approval processing timelines may vary depending on authority requirements. Installation works will only proceed after all necessary approvals are obtained.
All additional works and submission-related charges will be quoted separately after site assessment.
11) Changes, Rescheduling & Abortive Trips
Yes, rescheduling is allowed. We kindly request customers to inform us at least 2 to 3 working days in advance for any changes to the scheduled site survey or installation date.
Late rescheduling or last-minute changes (especially close to the installation date) may incur additional charges due to manpower allocation, logistics, and delivery arrangements that have already been made.
We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain efficient scheduling and service quality.
If the site is not ready (no access, unsafe, renovation incomplete), an abortive trip fee may apply. We encourage customers to confirm readiness before installation day.
12) Contact & Support
Commercestar Engineering Pte Ltd
📍 7 Yishun Industrial Street 1, #01-31 Northspring Bizhub, Singapore 768162
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: 8118 2372
📧 Email: sales@commercestar.net