Should You Increase Fan Speed Or Lower Temperature? Science-Backed Results For SG Homes

You just stepped into your HDB flat after a long walk from the MRT. It’s 34°C outside, and the humidity is a sticky 85%. You grab the remote. Your thumb hovers over the buttons. Do you drop the temperature to a frosty 16°C, or crank the fan speed to max?

Most Singaporeans choose 16°C. Spoiler alert: that’s usually the wrong move.At Aircon Servicing Singapore, we have analysed cooling data across thousands of local homes. In 2025, the NEA reported that Singapore recorded its highest mean temperatures on record. Efficient cooling becomes a survival skill. People expect 2026 and the coming years to be even hotter. Here is the surprising science of how to chill your room faster without doubling your SP Group bill.

The “Wind-Chill” Secret: Why Airflow Beats Cold

In Singapore’s tropical climate, the real enemy isn’t just the heat. It’s the moisture.

  • The Temperature Trap: Lowering the thermostat to 16°C forces your compressor into a marathon. It burns massive energy trying to reach a goal it may never hit in an open living room.
  • The Fan Advantage: Increasing fan speed uses roughly 1/10th the energy of the compressor. Higher airflow creates a “wind-chill effect” on your skin. It makes 24°C feel like 22°C instantly.

Pro Tip: If your fan is on “High” but you barely feel a breeze, your unit likely has a “choking” issue. It usually means dust-clogged filters are suffocating the motor. It’s time to book aircon servicing in Singapore.

Quick Aircon Guide: The Best Settings For Every Moment

Stop guessing. Use this table to pick the perfect combo for your comfort and your wallet.

Your GoalThe Smart SettingImpact on BillWhy it Works
I just got home!24°C + Max Fan🟢 LowCirculates hot air out fast.
It’s raining/sticky23°C + Dry Mode🟡 MediumFocuses on removing humidity.
I need to sleep25°C + Auto Fan🟢 LowestMaintains a steady, quiet chill.
Big family party21°C + High Fan🔴 HighestOvercomes body heat in the room.

What Do Our Clients Say

The High Bill Mystery in Woodlands

A family set their bedroom aircon to 19°C every night because the room felt “stuffy.” Their monthly SP Group Bill hit $300.

  • The Fix: We performed an aircon chemical wash to remove the dust “blanket” from their coils. We then suggested 24°C with a medium fan.
  • The Result: Same comfort level, but their bill dropped by 18% the very next month.

The Sweaty Office in Raffles Place 

An office team complained that only people sitting directly under the vent felt cool.

  • The Fix: We increased the fan speed to “High” and adjusted the louvres.
  • The Result: The cool air finally reached the far corners of the room, and they raised the thermostat to 25°C, saving on long-term commercial aircon servicing costs.

Why “Auto” Might Be Failing You

Many people use the “Auto” fan setting. While smart, it often slows down the fan as soon as the unit thinks it is cool near the ceiling. Even if you are still sweating on the sofa, it slows down. If you want instant relief, manually lock the fan to High for the first 20 minutes.

However, if your aircon still feels weak, it might be one of these silent killers:

  • Dirty Filters: Should be washed every 2 weeks (you can do this yourself!).
  • Low Refrigerant: If the air is blowing hard but isn’t cold, you likely need an aircon gas top-up.
  • Mould Growth: If you smell something “sour” when the fan ramps up, it’s time for a professional deep clean.

FAQs

Is it true that 25°C is the “Magic Number”? 

Yes! For every degree you raise your thermostat, you save about 6% to 10% on your energy bill. Pair 25°C with a high fan for the best balance in Singapore.

How much is aircon servicing in Singapore right now? 

A basic aircon servicing price in Singapore usually starts at $40–$50 per unit. However, most homeowners save more by booking an aircon servicing package for multiple units.

Does “Dry Mode” actually work? 

Absolutely. In Singapore’s 80% humidity, “Dry Mode” acts like a dehumidifier. It makes the air feel “crisp” and less “sticky” without lowering the temperature to freezing.

How often should I book a pro? 

For daily use, every 3 to 4 months is the sweet spot. Waiting longer allows dust to harden, which can lead to more expensive aircon repairs.

Chill Out Without The Stress

You don’t have to choose between a cool home and a low bill. By prioritising airflow and maintaining regular service, you can beat the Singapore heat for less.Is your aircon blowing more warm air than cold? Would you like us to send a technician to check your gas levels and clear your filters today? Contact Aircon Servicing Singapore. We offer affordable, professional aircon servicing to the people of Singapore.