With UK temperatures soaring to 37°C in some regions, more people are investing in air conditioning units. An estimated four million UK homes now have air conditioning—double the figure from three years ago. But choosing the right unit requires understanding BTU ratings, costs, and types.
Are air conditioning units necessary in the UK?
Ian Brown, senior commercial manager of AC Installations at British Gas, notes: "Air conditioning is becoming more popular in the UK as summers get warmer. While it's not essential for every home, it can help make your living space more comfortable by keeping rooms cool, reducing humidity and improving air circulation."
Will Jones, home expert at Currys, adds: "Air conditioning was once seen as a luxury in the UK, but as heatwaves become more frequent and homes retain more heat, it's becoming an increasingly practical investment."
How much do air conditioners cost to buy?
Portable units start from around £269 for entry-level models like the Logik LAC07C25, while premium smart models such as the Meaco MeacoCool range cost up to £529. Professionally installed wall-mounted systems from brands like Toshiba typically start at around £2,500 and can exceed £3,200, including installation.
What are the different types of air conditioning?
Portable units can be moved room to room without installation. Wall-mounted split systems are permanently fixed and can cool or heat a room efficiently, with multi-room systems available. Will Jones says: "Portable units are flexible, simple to set up and ideal for renters, flats or homes where permanent installation isn't practical. Fixed split systems provide more powerful, quieter cooling and often greater energy efficiency."
How much do air conditioners cost to run?
According to independent testing by Which?, the average portable air conditioner costs 22p per hour on its highest setting, with a range of 17p to 31p. MoneySuperMarket data indicates modern A-rated split systems cost between 10p and 50p per hour. Will Jones calculates: A typical 1,200-watt portable unit running eight hours a day costs around £2.50 per day (£75 per month). Wall-mounted systems cost between 20p and 54p per hour.
How effective are portable air conditioners?
Will Jones says: "Portable air conditioners are very effective at cooling individual rooms when correctly matched to the size of the space. The key is choosing the right BTU rating." Ian Brown adds: "They're often popular with renters, but for cheaper long-term running costs and heating, wall-mounted air conditioning is a no-brainer."
Choosing the right BTU rating for your space
Will Jones recommends: Up to 14m² (small bedrooms): 7,000 BTU. Up to 20m² (standard bedrooms/small living room): 9,000 BTU. 20m² and above (large living rooms): 12,000 BTU or more. He advises looking at energy efficiency, noise levels, and features like dehumidifying, heating, timers, and smart controls.
Practical considerations for portable units
Setup involves plugging in and positioning the exhaust hose through an open window. In humid conditions, some models may need the water tank emptied, though many modern units use self-evaporating technology.
Are air conditioning units noisy?
Ian Brown notes: "Modern systems are typically much quieter than many people expect." Portable units are louder because the compressor sits inside the room, operating between 50 and 65 decibels. Will Jones recommends models with a dedicated sleep or night mode for overnight use.
Portable vs wall-mounted: which is better?
Both experts agree it depends on needs. Portable units are more affordable upfront and movable; wall-mounted systems are quieter, more efficient, and better for long-term heating and cooling.
What should buyers look for?
Will Jones advises: "Room size should always be the starting point, followed by the correct BTU rating, energy efficiency and noise levels. Look for Energy Class A or A+ models, along with features such as eco mode, programmable timers, and sleep settings."
Best overall models to buy
Will Jones recommends three standout models: MeacoCool MC12000RPRO Smart Air Conditioner & Dehumidifier (best overall), De'Longhi Pinguino EX130CST Smart Air Conditioner & Dehumidifier (premium option), and Igenix IG9909WIFI 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner (best multi-tasker). British Gas recommends Bosch units.
Could air conditioning add value to a home?
Will Jones says: "There's no guarantee, but buyer expectations are changing as hotter summers become more common. Professionally installed systems can make a home more appealing."
Do I need planning permission?
In most cases, no, if the system provides both heating and cooling, the external unit does not exceed 0.6 cubic metres, is at least 1 metre from boundaries, and not on a wall facing a public road. Flats, listed buildings, conservation areas, or oversized units likely require permission.
