Cassette vs ducted AC
UAE shops and homes: four-way cassettes versus hidden ducted FCUs. Cleaning and leak differences.
Tip: send a photo of the indoor and outdoor unit on WhatsApp before we quote extras.
Cassette
One square, four-way vanes, drain pump inside. Common in shops, offices, some villa halls. Leaks when the pump dies. Cleaning needs a podium and water control. Cassette cleaning.
Ducted
Hidden box, grilles around the home. Leaks into gypsum. Cleaning is hatch + ducts. Quieter in the room, fussier in the ceiling.
Which is ‘better’
Wrong question for an existing building. You own what is installed. Fit-outs pick cassettes for shops because ducts need space you do not have.
Warning: do not poke live terminals or recover refrigerant yourself. Isolation first, then WhatsApp.
Need the job done, not another article?
WhatsApp Air Conditioning Cleaning UAEFAQs
Can I replace a cassette with a split?
Sometimes, with roof/ledge space for an outdoor and a drain path. Quoted as installation.
Related: /services/cassette-ac-cleaning/services/central-ducted-ac-cleaning