Keeping Cool This Summer: A Guide to Home Air Conditioning

As summer temperatures rise, many British homeowners dream of cool, air-conditioned relief from the heat and humidity. While air conditioning used to be a rarity in the UK, it's becoming an increasingly popular home upgrade. If you've been considering getting air conditioning installed, you probably have some questions about costs, the installation process, and whether it's really worth it. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Install Air Conditioning?There are plenty of good reasons why air conditioning has been catching on for British homes:

• Comfort: An air-conditioned home provides a cool, dehumidified respite from sweltering summer heat waves, which can make sleeping and relaxing difficult.

• Temperature Control: With an air conditioner, you have complete control over the temperature rather than being at the mercy of hot weather.

• Energy Efficiency: Newer AC units are much more energy efficient than you might think. They can reduce cooling costs compared to using fans and opening windows.

• Health Benefits: Air conditioning reduces humidity levels, which prevents mould growth that can trigger respiratory issues. The air filters also clean the air you breathe.

Types of Home Air Conditioning SystemsThere are several different options for residential air conditioning installation in the UK:

Split Air Conditioners: A split system has an outdoor condenser unit and compact indoor air handling units mounted on the wall in each room you want to be cooled. Split ACs tend to be quieter and more energy efficient.

Ducted Air Conditioning - Similar to a split system but with the air handler connected to ductwork and vents throughout the home for whole-house cooling. Ducted systems can be pricier to install but provide seamless cooling.

Costs for Air Conditioning Installation

The cost to install air conditioning in a typical 3-bedroom home in Britain ranges from £3,000 to £7,000 on average. The most significant cost factors are:

• Type of System: Ducted systems tend to cost more than split systems, which cost more than window/portable units.

• Size of Home: Larger homes need more powerful units and more equipment.

• Project Complexity: Homes requiring more ductwork, wiring, or custom installation will cost more.

Energy costs to run the AC will vary depending on your system and home size, but cooling a 3-bed home can cost £60-£100 monthly.

Finding an Air Con Installer

Not all HVAC companies have extensive experience with home air conditioning, so you'll want to choose carefully:

• Look for an installer accredited or other trade bodies.

• Check reviews and credentials for experience with your type of AC system.

• Get quotes from at least 2 installers to compare costs.

Summer is Coming - Keep Cool with Air Con!

Whether you're looking to cool just the main living areas or want whole-home air conditioning installation, an AC system meets your needs and budget. Beat the heat and enjoy a perfectly chilled summer by getting professional air conditioning for your home.