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Quick answer
Air conditioning installation in the UK typically costs between £1,500 and £3,500 for a single room and between £4,000 and £10,000 for a whole home. The exact price depends on the type of system, the number of rooms, your property's layout, and whether any electrical upgrades are needed. OVO offers a free survey to give you a fixed quote with no obligation to proceed.
What affects the cost of getting air conditioning installed?
There's no single price for getting air conditioning installed because no two homes are the same. Here are the main factors that determine what you'll pay.
Type of system
The biggest cost driver is the type of system you choose. There are three main options for home installations.
A split system has one outdoor unit connected to one indoor unit, cooling or heating a single room. It's the simplest and most affordable option, and the most common choice for bedrooms and home offices.
A multi-split system works in the same way but connects one outdoor unit to multiple indoor units across different rooms. Each room can be controlled independently, and it costs less than installing a separate system in each room.
A ducted system is completely hidden from view. Rather than wall-mounted units in each room, it uses a network of ducts running through your ceiling or walls to deliver conditioned air through discreet grilles. It's the most expensive option to install but the most seamless, making it popular in new builds and spaces where appearance matters.
Number of rooms
More rooms mean more indoor units, more pipework, and more installation time. Each additional room typically adds £700 to £1,500 to the total depending on the system and how straightforward the installation is.
Property type and layout
Installing in a modern home with easy roof and wall access is straightforward. Older properties, thick solid walls, or homes where pipework needs to run a long distance add complexity and cost.
Electrical supply
Air conditioning units need a dedicated circuit. If your consumer unit doesn't have spare capacity, an upgrade may be needed. This is usually a modest additional cost but worth factoring in.
Air conditioning installation cost breakdown
| System type | Typical cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Single split (1 room) | £1,500 to £2,500 | Bedrooms, home offices |
| Multi-split (2 to 4 rooms) | £3,500 to £6,500 | Most family homes |
| Multi-split (5+ rooms) | £6,000 to £10,000 | Larger homes |
| Ducted system | £8,000 to £15,000 | New builds, full home cooling |
These figures include supply and installation. They don't include any electrical upgrade work, which is quoted separately if needed.
What's included in the installation price?
A standard OVO air conditioning installation includes:
• Supply of the indoor and outdoor unit or units
• All pipework, brackets, and fixings
• Electrical connection to your consumer unit
• Commissioning and testing
• A handover showing you how to use the system
• A workmanship guarantee
How to get an accurate quote
The only way to get a reliable price is a home survey. Prices vary too much by property and system to quote accurately online. OVO's free survey covers your home's layout, the best location for the outdoor unit, your electrical supply, and the right system size for your needs. You'll receive a fixed price with no obligation to go ahead.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get an air conditioning unit installed?
A single room system typically takes half a day to a full day. A whole home multi-split system usually takes two to three days. Ducted systems can take longer depending on the scale of the work.
Can I install air conditioning in a rented property?
You'll need your landlord's permission. Installation involves drilling through walls and making changes to the electrical supply, which most tenancy agreements require consent for.
Does air conditioning add value to my home?
In hotter climates it's a given, and in the UK it's becoming more valued as summers get warmer. A well-installed system from a reputable installer is generally seen as a positive feature, particularly in newer builds and home offices.
Do I need planning permission for air conditioning?
Most domestic installations don't require planning permission as they fall under permitted development. There are exceptions for listed buildings, conservation areas, and some flats. OVO will advise you how to check any planning permission requirements.