Air Conditioning Installation Costs UK 2026
With UK summers getting hotter, home air conditioning is growing fast. Here is what AC installation costs in 2026 and which system suits your home.
Air Conditioning Costs by System
| System | Average Cost (installed) |
|---|---|
| Portable AC unit | £200–£600 (no installation) |
| Single split system (one room) | £1,000–£2,500 |
| Multi-split (2–3 rooms) | £2,500–£5,000 |
| Multi-split (4–5 rooms) | £4,000–£8,000 |
| Ducted system (whole house) | £6,000–£15,000 |
| Annual servicing | £80–£200 |
Split systems are by far the most popular for UK homes. A single wall-mounted unit cooling one room is the entry point for most homeowners.
Choosing the Right AC System
Split system — The best choice for most UK homes. Quiet, efficient, and many models also provide heating. Brands like Daikin, Mitsubishi and Samsung are the market leaders.
Running costs — A typical split unit costs 10–15p per hour to run. Modern inverter units adjust power output, so running costs are lower than older fixed-speed units.
Installation — Requires an outdoor unit (condenser), an indoor unit, and refrigerant pipework connecting them. Installation takes 1 day for a single unit. The installer must be F-Gas certified by law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need planning permission for air conditioning?
Can air conditioning also heat a room?
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