As Britain swelters under record-breaking temperatures, homeowners are facing a stark choice: endure the discomfort of rising heat or invest in cooling solutions that can risk breaking the bank. With climate change driving more frequent and intense heatwaves, many families are turning to air conditioning as an essential part of their homes – but what's the best way for them to do it?
British housing stock has traditionally been designed with insulation against cold in mind, leaving homes struggling to shed heat during prolonged warm spells. This can lead to uncomfortable conditions indoors, particularly in bedrooms and south-facing rooms, where elevated temperatures pose health risks to vulnerable groups like the elderly and those with heart or respiratory conditions.
Portable air conditioning units are becoming increasingly popular as an entry point into home cooling, requiring no professional installation but only plugging in and venting through a window. Prices have dropped to around £250 for decent models, making them more affordable than many expect. However, these units can be noisy, heavy, and only cool one room effectively, requiring proper sealing around the window.
Despite initial concerns about running costs, portable air conditioners prove to be relatively economical, with Ofgem's electricity price cap suggesting a typical unit costs between 20p and over 50p per hour to operate. Even during a week-long heatwave, using a portable unit for several hours daily might incur electricity bills of £10 to £20 – less than many anticipated.
For those seeking comprehensive cooling, whole-home installed air conditioning systems offer greater efficiency and quieter operation. However, these demand professional installation, which can be expensive and disruptive in existing properties, often requiring structural work like lifting floors or lowering ceilings.
Experts stress the importance of setting realistic expectations when considering portable air conditioning: it won't cool an entire house but can significantly improve a single room's comfort level if doors are kept closed to contain cooled air. Ultimately, homeowners must weigh their individual home heat levels, expected usage frequency, and budget before making a decision.