This summer, much of the UK is grappling with an uncomfortable truth: our homes can get unbearably hot and it's likely only going to get worse.
For most of this summer so far, as fans struggled to provide relief we desperately need, we've been left wondering whether air conditioning is becoming a necessity.
Resarchers recently found that external shading can significantly reduce the build-up of heat inside homes during the summer but noted that air conditioning may still be unavoidable in the hottest regions. Meanwhile, UNICEF estimates that global air conditioning ownership will rise to 45% by 2030.
Long considered an North American staple, air conditioning might soon become more common in the UK, too. But not all systems are created equal. Broadly speaking, there are two options: portable units and fixed, wall-mounted systems that require professional installation. So which type offers the better value? We break down the cost of each.
Purchase and installation
Portable systems are more affordable options upfront. "You can get a good portable unit for £300 to £500, sometimes less, with prices across the market running from around £200 up to £850 depending on capacity," says Stephen Day, director at iHeat.
They also don't require any installation, making them an attractive option for renters or anyone looking for a quick solution.
Fitted air conditioning, on the other hand, is a much bigger investment. "Wall-mounted split systems start at the £600 to £800 range for the unit alone, but installation by a professional, which is strongly recommended, puts them in the £1,000 to £1,800 range and beyond, depending on the range and model," the expert says.
Multi-split systems, which cool several rooms, cost even more. They also require more extensive planning and, in some cases, planning permission as well as professional installation.
Running costs
How often you plan to use air conditioning is one of the biggest factors when deciding which type offers the best value. While portable units cost less to buy, fixed systems are generally much cheaper to run.
"Portable units are notably less efficient – typically rated A or below – and can use up to 20% more energy per cooling output compared to fixed split systems," says energy expert Anton Neike, CEO at Taupia.
"For context, running a portable air conditioner for eight hours a day could cost around £75 per month, while a modern wall-mounted split system with an A++ rating might cost just £25 to £50 for the same usage.
Although the daily difference may not seem huge, it adds up over time over time. Based on typical summer use, a 2.5kW portable unit could cost £61 to £92 to run over the season, compared with £31 to £49 for a wall-mounted alternative, Anton says. Over five years, choosing a fixed installation could save homeowners up to £215 in electricity costs.
Stephen agrees. "Running a wall-mounted unit over a summer costs about half as much," he says. "So while you pay more upfront, the long-term savings on your energy bill can be significantly better than a portable model."
Maintenance and repairs
Whether portable or fixed, air conditioners need regular maintenance to keep them running efficiently. Filters should be cleaned every two to three months and replaced once a year.
Wall-mounted systems also require professional servicing, typically once or twice a year, depending on its size. "A typical annual service ranges from £80 to £150, depending on the system and provider, and a biannual service from £150 to £250," says Stephen.
"All in, most homeowners can expect to pay between £100 and £300 a year for cleaning, inspection and minor repairs."
Portable units may not require the same level of attention, but because they are less durable they may need replacing sooner than a well-maintained fitted system.
Which offers the best value?
The better option depends on your home, your budget and how often you expect to use air conditioning.
Homes in the UK's south are generally more likely to experience prolonged periods of extreme heat than those further north. Likewise, if your property is well insulated and shaded, you may only need cooling for a handful of days each year.
"For households who only need cooling for a few hot nights a year, portable air conditioning is usually the cheaper overall option," says Anton. "Even if it costs more to run per hour, the lower purchase price means it can take a long time for a fitted unit to make financial sense."
Stephen's broadly agrees but says portable units are less suitable for regular use. "My view is that wall units are far superior for those wanting comfort, control and energy efficiency year-round, while portable units are perfect for short-term needs or where installation is not possible, but they are not a long-term solution."
Cooling summer essentials
Comfortably Cool 1 Tog Duvet
ChillPill 3-in-1 Fan, Mist & InstaChill System
DREO 7500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
Emma Premium Pillow
Wanda Sachs is the Multiplatform Writer for Country Living and House Beautiful, exploring the latest in gardening, wildlife and sustainable living alongside interiors and property. She is particularly interested in human-interest stories, the intersection of design and pop culture, and the evolving relationship between urban and rural life. Previously, she served as Associate Editor at The Berliner in Berlin, where she reported on culture and fashion. Wanda studied English and German at the Goethe University Frankfurt and Exeter University.
