As the weather is warming up and summer approaches, it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to keep cool when those hot days hit.
Air conditioning in the UK has moved away from being a luxury to a necessity for many people. More and more people are installing air conditioning units in their homes, which inevitably raises the question: how much does it cost to install air con?
This guide will cover the cost of air con installation, the factors that affect the price, the cost of hiring professional installers against doing it yourself, and the cheapest air conditioning units and options.
The key cost factors for air conditioning installation
There’s not really an easy answer to the question of how much air conditioning installation costs, as there are a lot of factors that affect the price, such as:
The type of air conditioning unit
The installation cost will partly be determined by the type of air conditioning unit you choose. There are a few types of air conditioning units, each with varying price points and efficiency levels.
These include:
- Wall-mounted air conditioners
- Split system air conditioners
- Portable air conditioners
Each has a different purpose and a different level of installation complexity. In addition to the installation fees, there is the cost of the air conditioning unit itself to consider. This will vary based on its size, power, and the manufacturer.
Read more: What is a split system air conditioner?
The complexity of the installation
Where you want to install your AC unit will affect the price. Factors to consider include the size of the room, the pipe run length, and the floor level.
For example, if you want to install an air conditioning unit on the second floor of your house, it’s naturally going to cost more than if you want to install it in the living room on the ground floor.
Location and supplier
Given the complexity of the installation, installation fees can vary depending on who you choose to install your air conditioning unit and where you live in the UK.
As a rough average, you can expect to pay between £500 and £1,000+ for installation, but this can vary depending on the installation’s complexity.
Seasonal demand
Prices spike when air conditioning units are in demand. Getting an air conditioning unit installed in July will be more expensive than in January, as prices tend to be higher in the summer months when engineers are in demand.
Can you install air conditioning in any property?
In most cases, yes. Air conditioning units can be installed in most properties. Certain factors can make installing an air conditioning unit more difficult. For instance,
What makes a difference is the property’s age and size. The problem doesn’t lie with the installation of the air conditioning unit itself, but with the unit’s efficiency once it’s installed.
Modern AC units are designed to move heat; they don’t just create cold air to cool your property. So, for the system to work efficiently, your home needs adequate insulation to prevent the conditioned air from escaping.
If the job’s complexity or the property’s size makes installing an air conditioning unit difficult, you can always opt for a portable unit.
These all-in-one wheeled units sit on the floor. They’re not as efficient as a wall-mounted unit, but they’re a great temporary option for cooling a single room.
Read more: Portable air conditioners vs wall-mounted – which is better?
The benefits of air conditioning
Air conditioning offers many benefits that make it a worthwhile investment. It’s not just about keeping cool in the summer; it’s got a lot more to offer, such as:
Improved air quality
Air conditioning units filter the air in your home, helping remove dust, pollen, and other allergens. It’s really beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory issues.
They’re also helpful for removing odours, making your home smell fresh and clean, and reducing excess humidity to prevent mould growth.
Improved sleep quality
Cooler, cleaner air will drastically improve your sleep quality, which is why air conditioning units are a secret weapon for better sleep.
It’s suggested that an ideal sleeping temperature is between 16°C and 25°C, and air conditioning units can help you stay within that range. This reduces the risk of waking in the middle of the night, improving your overall sleep quality.
Year-round control of temperature
Air conditioning units aren’t just for summer. Yes, they’re great for cooling your home during those warmer months, but they can also be used year-round.
Most people forget that modern air conditioning is actually an air-to-air heat pump. So when those winter months hit and it’s getting colder, you can use your air conditioning unit to heat your home.
In fact, it can be quicker and more efficient to heat your home with an air conditioning unit than with your radiators, as it heats the air in your home much faster.
Ongoing costs and maintenance
One thing to keep in mind is that air conditioning units have ongoing costs as well as an upfront installation cost, so keep in mind the following:
Electricity costs
Aircon units can use quite a lot of electricity, depending on the size of the unit and how often you use it throughout the year. Keep in mind that if you leave it on or you’re a frequent user, you’re going to see an increase in your energy bills.
Maintenance and servicing
It’s recommended that you have your air conditioning unit serviced every year by a professional to keep it in good working order.
It’s beneficial to have cover for your air conditioning unit, as you’ll save yourself the headache of finding a professional on short notice. With cover, you can split the service payment into monthly payments, and you’ll also get access to discounted repair parts, as well as being a priority customer.
In addition to having its services, it’s also important to clean your air conditioning unit regularly to keep it running at peak efficiency and avoid issues.
Is air conditioning worth it?
Air conditioning is a worthwhile investment for most people. It’s crucial for staying cool in the summer, and it’s also great for improving your sleep and your home’s air quality.
The initial upfront cost can be high, but if you’re in a position where you can invest, it’s definitely the right move.
