With the UK experiencing more frequent and intense heatwaves, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to keep their properties cool. Historically, British homes were designed to retain heat, but a shift in climate patterns is prompting a re-evaluation of domestic cooling solutions. Air conditioning, once a rarity in UK residences, is now seeing a surge in demand, with retailers reporting units selling out rapidly.
There are three primary types of air conditioning systems suitable for home use, each with varying costs and installation requirements. Portable air conditioners are the most accessible, standalone units that can be moved between rooms. They work by drawing in warm air, cooling it, and expelling hot air outside through a window via a duct. These units typically range from £350 to £650, although some retailers have offered them for as low as £149 during periods of high demand, according to Checkatrade.
For a more permanent solution, split systems are popular. These comprise an indoor unit and an outdoor condenser, connected by a pipe. The outdoor unit expels heat into the external air. A single split system for one room can cost between £750 and £1,100 for the unit alone, Checkatrade states. However, installation, which may involve connecting to the property's electricity fuse board, can push the total cost to between £2,000 and £3,500, and up to £6,000 for multiple rooms, according to Heatable.
The most comprehensive option is a ducted air conditioning system, designed to cool an entire home. This involves a central unit that distributes cooled air through a network of vents in each room. Ducted systems require significant renovation work, making them the most expensive choice. Unit costs alone range from £990 to £1,750, but with installation and remedial work to conceal ducting, the total expense can be between £5,000 and £10,000, depending on the property's size and complexity, Heatable estimates.
Beyond the initial purchase and installation, running costs are a significant consideration. Consumer group Which? indicates that these costs vary widely depending on the system type. A typical portable air conditioner, for instance, is estimated to add approximately 25p to 40p per hour to an electricity bill. While the primary benefit of air conditioning is enhanced comfort during hot weather, particularly for sleeping and working, the increased electricity consumption will lead to higher energy bills, especially with current energy prices remaining elevated.