Air Conditioning FAQ

Answers to the questions Jamaican homes and businesses ask us most, from Tropicool's 30+ years of selling, installing and repairing air conditioning.

Buying & installation

How much does AC installation cost in Jamaica?

It depends on the size and type of unit, how far the indoor unit is from the outdoor unit (the length of copper piping), the wall or ceiling type, and whether electrical work is needed. Tropicool offers a free on-site assessment and gives you a clear quote for the unit and installation before any work starts. Call 876-926-8800 to book.

What size air conditioner do I need?

As a rough guide for Jamaica's climate:

  • Up to about 300 sq ft (small bedroom): 9,000 BTU
  • About 300–450 sq ft (large bedroom, small office): 12,000 BTU
  • About 450–750 sq ft (living room, open-plan area): 18,000 BTU
  • About 750–1,000 sq ft (large living area, shop or office): 24,000 BTU

Sun exposure, ceiling height, insulation, windows and how many people use the room all change the right size. A unit that is too small runs constantly; one that is too big cools unevenly and does not remove humidity well. Our free on-site assessment takes the guesswork out.

What is the difference between an inverter and a non-inverter AC?

A non-inverter (fixed-speed) unit switches its compressor fully on and off to hold the temperature. An inverter unit varies its compressor speed instead, so it holds a steadier temperature, runs more quietly and typically uses noticeably less electricity, which matters with Jamaica's power costs. Inverter units cost more upfront but usually save money over time.

Which brands do you sell and install?

Tropicool sells Tropicool-brand inverter AC units, portable units, Rheem packaged commercial systems and VRF systems for multi-room buildings, plus parts from brands such as Danfoss, Emerson, Ranco and Bautzen. Our technicians install and service all major AC brands.

Do you install outside Kingston?

Yes. Tropicool provides AC sales, installation, repairs and maintenance across Jamaica. Our showroom and parts counter is at 56A Studio One Blvd, Kingston 5.

Do you handle commercial and cold-room projects?

Yes. Beyond homes, we supply and install systems for offices, retail, restaurants, supermarkets and industrial sites, including packaged units, VRF systems, cold rooms, walk-in coolers and freezers.

Repairs & maintenance

Do you offer same-day AC repair?

Yes, same-day emergency service is available. Call 876-926-8800 as early in the day as possible. Our certified technicians service all brands and use genuine spare parts.

How often should my AC be serviced?

In Jamaica's heat and humidity, most units benefit from a professional service every 3 to 6 months, and filters should be cleaned monthly. Regular servicing keeps efficiency up, lowers electricity bills and catches problems early. Ask us about our maintenance plans.

What are signs my AC needs repair?

Warm air, water leaking indoors, ice on the pipes, unusual noises, bad smells, the unit switching on and off rapidly, error codes, or a sudden jump in your electricity bill. Switch the unit off and call us. Running it with a fault can damage the compressor.

Can you improve indoor air quality?

Yes. Our air quality service includes duct cleaning, filter replacement, damper adjustments and air quality testing, which is ideal for homes with children, elderly family members or allergy sufferers.

Warranty, payment & layaway

What warranty comes with Tropicool AC units?
  • 1-year manufacturer's warranty on all functional parts
  • 5-year warranty on the AC unit compressor
  • If a unit needs a technician visit three times in any one year after purchase, Tropicool will remove and replace it with a new unit at no cost to you
  • Liberal refund policy and product exchange
Do you offer financing or layaway?

Yes. Our in-house Lay-a-Way plan splits the total into 3 equal monthly payments: no bank, no interest, no fees and no credit check. Your unit is reserved after the first payment and delivered or installed once the final payment clears.

What payment methods do you accept?

Cash, card and bank transfer.

Parts, refrigerants & the environment

Do you sell AC parts and refrigerants?

Yes. We stock hundreds of parts, including compressors, motors, capacitors, filter driers, valves, copper pipe, insulation, thermostats and tools, plus refrigerants such as R32, R410A, R134A, R404A and R22 (for servicing existing systems). Browse the shop or visit our Kingston parts counter.

What happens to old refrigerant when you replace a unit?

Tropicool is one of only two companies in Jamaica licensed by the government through NEPA to collect and recycle ozone-depleting refrigerants, and our recycling centre has operated for more than ten years. Old refrigerant is recovered responsibly, not released into the air.

Visiting us

Where are you located and what are your hours?

56A Studio One Blvd, Kingston 5. Open Monday to Friday 8:15am–5pm and Saturday 9am–2pm. Call 876-926-8800 or 876-226-9025, or email tropicoolja@gmail.com.

Still have a question? Call 876-926-8800, visit us at 56A Studio One Blvd, Kingston 5, or send us a message. We'll book your free on-site assessment.