Normal Service vs Chemical Service — When & How Often to Service Your Aircond (Malaysia)
In Malaysia’s humid climate, regular aircond maintenance isn't optional — it's essential. This guide explains the difference between Normal Service and Chemical Service, recommended service intervals based on usage, and the top warning signs that your unit needs a deep chemical clean before it causes bigger damage.
1. Normal Service vs Chemical Service — What’s the Difference?
Normal Service (Basic Maintenance)
Included:
- Wash indoor front cover & filters
- Flush drain pipe
- General dust cleaning (indoor & outdoor)
- Basic gas pressure & electrical check
Best for: Light-use units (bedrooms used only at night) or units recently serviced and showing good cooling.
Chemical Service (Deep Clean)
Included:
- Full dismantle of indoor unit
- C hemical coil cleaning to remove slime & mold
- Deep clean blower wheel and fan
- Flush & disinfect drain pan and pipe
- Component-level inspection & reassembly
Best for: Units with smell, weak cooling, leaking, or units not cleaned for a long time.
2. How Often Should You Service Your Aircond in Malaysia? (Based on Usage)
Service frequency depends on daily usage, room type and environment (kitchens, restaurants, dusty shops need more frequent attention).
| Usage | Normal Service | C hemical Service |
|---|---|---|
| Light (3–5 hrs/day) — bedroom | Every 4–6 months | Every 12–18 months |
| Medium (6–10 hrs/day) — master room/home office | Every 3–4 months | Every 12 months |
| Heavy (8–16 hrs/day) — living room/shop | Every 2–3 months | Every 6–12 months |
| Very heavy / commercial | Every 1–2 months | Every 6 months |
| Typical condo units (PJ / Damansara) | Every 3–4 months | Every 12 months |
3. Top Signs Your Aircond Needs Chemical Cleaning (Before It Breaks Down)
- Not cold even after gas top-up — coil blockage is often the cause, not refrigerant.
- Musty or rotten smell — indicates mold/bacteria on the coil or blower.
- Water leaking from indoor unit — blocked drain or heavy slime build-up.
- Weak airflow — dirty blower wheel or blocked coil.
- Ice/frost on the coil — poor airflow causing freezing and later leakage.
- Sudden spike in electricity bill — compressor overworks when coils are dirty.
- Frequent auto-off or sensor trips — caused by blocked airflow and incorrect temperature readings.
4. Why Regular Service Saves You Money (Malaysia Climate)
Humidity in Malaysia accelerates mold and slime formation on coils and drain pans. Regular maintenance avoids:
- Premature compressor failure
- Higher energy bills
- Unpleasant odours
- Water damage to ceilings and floors
5. FAQ — Quick Answers
Q: How long does a chemical service take?
A: Usually 1.5–3 hours per indoor unit depending on model and dirt level. We perform a pressure & gas check after reassembly.
Q: Can I just do normal service instead of chemical?
A: Normal service is fine for routine upkeep. If you have bad smell, poor cooling, or leaks — chemical service is recommended to restore performance.
Q: Will chemical cleaning damage my unit?
A: No — when done by trained technicians using appropriate chemicals and rinsing methods. Always choose certified technicians.
Q: How much does chemical service cost?
A: Prices vary by HP and unit type. Contact us for a local quote in Petaling Jaya & Damansara Perdana: 018-250 0089.
Local Service — Book a Check
Thiam Seng Electrical Trading Co. provides supply, installation and professional maintenance for Panasonic, Haier & Midea units in Petaling Jaya and Damansara Perdana. Our services include gas test, pressure test, installation inspection and both normal & chemical cleaning.
Call 018-250 0089 — Book ServiceOr email: tsetc@thiamseng.com