How much does a new air conditioning unit cost in the UK?
By Dale @ ukaircontracker · facts checked
Quick answer
A new portable air conditioner in the UK typically costs £250–£700 with no installation. A fitted single-room split system typically costs £1,500–£2,500 installed, a 2–3 room multi-split £3,000–£5,500, and a whole-house system £5,000–£9,000 or more. Running costs are roughly 18p–34p an hour at the 26.32p/kWh price cap.
| Type | Typical cost | Installation | Running cost per hour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portable air conditioner | £250 – £700 | None (window kit) | 21p – 34p |
| Single split system | £1,500 – £2,500 fitted | F-gas installer, about a day | about 18p |
| Multi-split, 2–3 rooms | £3,000 – £5,500 fitted | F-gas installer | per indoor unit in use |
| Whole-house / ducted | £5,000 – £9,000+ fitted | Survey and design | depends on zones running |
Running costs at the Ofgem cap of 26.32p/kWh (Oct–Dec 2026), at full output. Thermostats cycle the compressor, so real hourly costs are usually lower.
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What changes the price of a fitted system
Two quotes for the same room can differ by hundreds of pounds. The main reasons:
- Pipe-run length between the indoor and outdoor units
- Wall construction (core drilling solid stone costs more)
- A new electrical circuit, if one is needed
- Access: brackets at height, scaffolding, or a flat roof
- Unit capacity and efficiency rating
Getting an accurate quote
Fitted air conditioning is quoted per job, usually after a survey. Ask each installer for the unit model, cooling and heating capacity in kW, pipe-run length included, and their F-gas certificate number, so the quotes can be compared like for like.
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
- How much does it cost to install air conditioning in one room in the UK?
- A single wall-mounted split system typically costs £1,500–£2,500 including the unit and installation.
- What is the cheapest air conditioning option?
- A portable air conditioner, typically £250–£700, with no installation. It costs more per hour to run and is noisier than a fitted split system.
- Is air conditioning expensive to run in the UK?
- A fitted split unit costs about 18p an hour at full output at the current price cap; a portable unit 21p–34p. Most UK homes only need cooling for a few weeks a year.
- How many quotes should I get for air conditioning?
- Three is a sensible number. Compare the exact unit, capacity, pipe run and warranty, not just the total.