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Cost GuidesUpdated May 2026By TradeMatch Editorial Team·6 April 2026·Updated 12 April 2026·6 min read
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?
Not usually for domestic properties. However, if you live in a listed building or conservation area, you may need permission for the external condenser unit. The outdoor unit should be positioned to minimise noise impact on neighbours.
Can air conditioning also heat a room?
Yes — most modern split systems are heat pumps that work in reverse to provide efficient heating. They are typically 3–4x more efficient than electric heaters and can be a cost-effective supplement to central heating.
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