How much does it cost to install permanent air conditioning in your home?
If the heatwave has convinced you to invest, here's what you'll need to budget
With the current temperatures in the UK, I wouldn't be surprised if installing permanent air conditioning in your home has crossed your mind at least once since the heatwave began.
Installing air conditioning is a much bigger investment than buying one of the best portable air conditioners, but it can make a huge difference if you're looking for a long-term cooling solution.
The final cost depends on the size of your home, how many rooms you want to cool and the type of system you choose, so I've broken down the typical prices to give you an idea of what to expect.
How much does it cost?
The most common option for cooling a single room is a split-system air conditioner, which typically costs between £1,500 and £3,000, including professional installation. These systems feature an indoor unit mounted on the wall, connected to an outdoor condenser, and are a popular choice for bedrooms and living rooms. One of our freelancers recently had an AC unit installed in his bedroom by BOXT, so it's worth checking out his experience if you're considering it.
If you want to cool multiple rooms, a multi-split system is the next step up. These systems connect several indoor units to a single outdoor unit and generally cost between £3,000 and £7,000, depending on how many rooms you're covering and how complicated the installation is.
For cooling your entire home, prices increase significantly. A fully ducted central air conditioning system can cost anywhere from £8,000 to £15,000 or more, especially if it's being installed in an existing property. These systems are more commonly fitted in new-build homes, where ductwork can be planned into the design from the start.
What else is there to consider?
There are also some additional costs to consider. Installation can become more expensive if pipework needs to travel a long distance, electrical upgrades are required or access to the property is challenging. Many homeowners also choose an annual servicing plan, which usually costs around £100 to £250 per year, to keep the system running efficiently.
Despite the upfront cost, permanent air conditioning is something many homeowners would recommend if they have the budget. With UK heatwaves becoming more frequent and temperatures continuing to rise, installing AC could be a way to future-proof your home rather than finding a temporary fix every summer.
If you're not ready to make that investment, check out how much it costs to run a portable air conditioner compared to a fan next.
