Domestic air conditioning in the UK: your options
By Dale @ ukaircontracker · facts checked
Quick answer
UK homes have two main air conditioning choices. A portable unit (typically £250–£700) plugs in and vents through a window, with no installer needed. A fitted split system (typically £1,500–£2,500 per room installed) is quieter, cools better and usually heats too, but must be installed by an F-gas certified engineer. Fitted units are normally bought through the installer, not off the shelf.
| Option | Typical cost | Noise indoors | Heats too? | Renter-friendly? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portable unit | £250 – £700 | Loud (compressor in the room) | Some models | Yes |
| Wall-mounted split | £1,500 – £2,500 per room | Quiet | Usually | Landlord consent needed |
| Multi-split | £3,000 – £5,500 (2–3 rooms) | Quiet | Usually | Landlord consent needed |
| Ducted | £5,000 – £9,000+ | Quiet | Usually | Rarely |
| Evaporative cooler | Under £150 | Fan noise | No | Yes |
No installer needed? Portable air conditioners in stock now
MeacoCool MC Series Pro 9,000 BTU
Photographed listing — tagged buy buttons go to the retailer, not another article.
Where to buy domestic air conditioning
Portable units are sold by mainstream retailers and online marketplaces; our stock pages show which ones are in stock now. Fitted systems are usually supplied by the installer, who buys from trade air conditioning suppliers and registers the warranty. Buying a split system yourself and then looking for a fitter is possible, but many installers will not warranty equipment they did not supply.
Rules that apply in the UK
Only an F-gas certified engineer may connect and commission the refrigerant circuit of a split system. The outdoor unit may need planning permission depending on where it goes and the type of property; listed buildings and conservation areas are stricter.
Is it worth it?
If you only need relief for a few hot weeks a year, a portable unit or a good fan is the low-cost answer. If a room overheats every summer, or you want efficient electric heating as well, a fitted split system pays back in comfort and usually costs less per hour to run.
Look at the kit — then buy it
MeacoCool MC Series Pro 9,000 BTU
Pro Breeze 12,000 BTU 4-in-1 Smart AC
AuraHome Portable AC 9,000 BTU — 4-in-1 Cool/Dehumidify/Fan
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Common questions
- Can I have air conditioning fitted in my house in the UK?
- Yes. Most homes can take a wall-mounted split system. It needs a wall for the indoor unit, a place outside for the condenser and an F-gas certified installer. Check planning rules if you are in a listed building or conservation area.
- Where can I buy a home air conditioning unit?
- Portable units are sold by UK retailers and marketplaces. Fitted split systems are normally supplied and installed by an air conditioning installer, who buys from trade suppliers.
- Do I need permission to install air conditioning in a flat?
- If you rent, you need your landlord's consent. If you own a leasehold flat, check the lease and ask the freeholder before mounting an outdoor unit on the building.
- Is fitted air conditioning cheaper to run than portable?
- Usually, yes. A fitted split system cools more per unit of electricity because its compressor and hot side are outdoors.