There’s nothing worse than when you’re trying to get to sleep, and it’s scorching in your bedroom, making it impossible to get comfortable and have a good night’s sleep.
These summer months can be a killer for your sleep schedule.
So how can you cope with the heat? Fans push warm air around, and opening windows exposes you to loud noises outside or an army of insects invading your bedroom.
The only reliable solution is a proper aircon unit for your room that actively cools the air and keeps it at the temperature that’s ideal for you.
But then another question arises: what’s the best air conditioning unit for bedrooms?
This blog will cover everything you need to know to pick the best air conditioning unit for your bedroom.
Why an air conditioning unit is a must-have for bedrooms
Summer nights can be tough. The warm air combined with houses built to keep that heat in makes a good night’s sleep incredibly difficult.
Studies suggest that the sweet spot for temperature when trying to sleep is 16°C to 18°C, and without air conditioning, that’s pretty much impossible to get indoors during the UK summer months.
Getting to this temperature means enjoying your sleep more, reaching deep sleep sooner, and experiencing higher mood and energy levels the next morning.
Modern AC units are actually designed to do more than just cool your space.
Many systems also filter allergens and control humidity, so for people who suffer from hay fever or asthma, air con units can help address these issues.
The different types of air conditioning units
There are two main types of AC units, each with its own pros and cons for bedroom use.
Split-system air conditioning units
A split-system has two parts: an indoor unit mounted on the wall and an outdoor compressor, connected by pipework through the wall. Heat is moved from inside to outside, cooling the room.
Learn more: What is a split system air conditioner?
Portable air conditioning units
Portable units are freestanding, usually on wheels, and require no installation. They cool the room by drawing in warm air, passing it over refrigerant, and venting the heat out through a hose (which needs a window or vent).
Keep reading: Portable air conditioners vs wall-mounted – which is better?
How to decide on an aircon unit
Split-system air conditioners are the quieter, more energy-efficient option.
They’re powerful enough to cool larger spaces, save floor space by mounting on the wall, and provide a long-term solution for homeowners.
The trade-off is a higher upfront cost, the need for professional installation by an F-Gas-certified engineer, and the fact that, once fitted, they can’t be moved.
Portable air conditioners, on the other hand, are more affordable upfront, don’t require professional installation, and can be moved between rooms as needed.
However, they’re noisier and less energy-efficient than split-systems, struggle to cool larger spaces, require a window or vent for exhaust (which reduces their effectiveness), and take up valuable floor space.
How much does it cost to install air conditioning in your bedroom?
The cost of installing a split-system air conditioner in a bedroom typically depends on the unit itself, the installation complexity, and the pipe run length.
As a rough guide, expect to pay between £500 and £1,000+ for installation on top of the unit cost, though second-floor bedrooms or longer pipe runs will push that higher.
Seasonal demand matters too: booking outside of summer usually means better pricing and faster availability.
Find out more: How much does it cost to install air conditioning?
What to look out for
Before you commit to an aircon unit for your bedroom, there are a few key factors that could make or break your experience.
Getting the cooling power is one thing, but for bedroom use specifically, these three things matter most:
Noise level
Nobody wants an aircon unit that’s going to be blasting out noise when you’re trying to sleep. Despite its benefits for cooling and air quality, that loud noise will disrupt your sleep just as much.
Before making your decision, check the decibels of some aircon units. The healthy range varies depending on the type of unit:
Split-system units: 19 dB and 35 dB indoors because the loud compressor sits outside
Portable units: 48-65 dB because all moving parts stay inside the room.
Improved air quality
One of the best advantages of having an air con unit is the effect it has on the air in your bedroom.
As mentioned above, it’s perfect for people with asthma or hay fever, helping them battle allergies.
While a lot of modern systems are now designed to improve air quality, you still need to check that the AC unit you decide to use is capable.
Energy efficiency
It’s no secret that air conditioning units can use a lot of electricity, so you need to make sure that the air con unit you decide to go for has a high energy rating.
Aim for anything rated A or above to keep the costs manageable, while still providing comfort.
What’s best for your bedroom?
Each aircon unit has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your situation.
If you own your home, plan to stay long-term, and value quiet, undisturbed sleep above all else, a split-system is the better investment.
The upfront cost is higher, but you’ll get quieter operation, lower running costs, and a unit that actively improves your air quality without taking up a single inch of floor space.
For most bedrooms, it’s the clear winner.
If you’re renting, need a flexible solution you can move between rooms, or simply aren’t ready to commit to a permanent installation, a portable unit provides quick, affordable cooling.
Just be prepared for more noise and slightly higher energy bills.
Either way, the most important thing is that you’re no longer lying awake at 2 am staring at the ceiling. A good night’s sleep is worth the investment, whatever form it takes.
