Air Conditioning Cost Comparison By Type
Compare different air conditioning systems for your home including features, installation requirements, and running costs
About Air Conditioning Types
Different air conditioning systems offer distinct benefits in terms of efficiency, installation requirements, and running costs. The right AC type for your home depends on factors like room size, property type, installation complexity, and budget considerations.
This guide compares the most popular air conditioning types in the UK market, helping you understand their features, advantages, and typical costs. Whether you need portable flexibility or permanent installation efficiency, finding the perfect AC solution is essential for comfort and energy savings.
Quick Comparison
Most Efficient
Wall
Easiest Install
Portable
Most Popular
Portable
Lowest Running Cost
Wall
Air Conditioning Cost by Type
Portable Air Conditioning Unit
Portable air conditioners are standalone units that can be moved from room to room, requiring only a window for exhaust. Popular in UK homes due to their flexibility and no permanent installation requirements.
Advantages
- No installation required
- Can be moved between rooms
- Suitable for rental properties
Best Suited For
- Rental properties
- Occasional use
- Small rooms up to 25m²
Key Features
- Easy to move between rooms
- No permanent installation
- Window exhaust kit included
Efficiency
Good
Installation
Easy
Capacity
7,000-15,000 BTU (2-4.5kW)
Unit Price
£200-£800
Wall Mounted Air Conditioning Unit
Wall mounted split systems with an indoor unit mounted high on the wall and outdoor compressor. Most popular fixed AC solution in UK homes, offering excellent efficiency and quiet operation.
Advantages
- Very energy efficient
- Quiet operation
- Excellent temperature control
Best Suited For
- Medium to large rooms
- Permanent installations
- Energy efficiency priority
Key Features
- Indoor and outdoor units
- Professional installation required
- Inverter technology
Efficiency
Excellent
Installation
Hard
Capacity
9,000-24,000 BTU (2.6-7kW)
Unit Price
£400-£2,000
Split Air Conditioning Unit
Split systems separate the noisy compressor (outdoor) from the quiet indoor unit. Available in various configurations including wall-mounted, floor-standing, and ceiling cassette options.
Advantages
- Very quiet indoor operation
- Flexible indoor unit placement
- Excellent efficiency
Best Suited For
- Single rooms or open plan areas
- Noise-sensitive environments
- Energy efficiency priority
Key Features
- Separate indoor/outdoor units
- Multiple indoor unit options
- Inverter technology
Efficiency
Excellent
Installation
Hard
Capacity
9,000-36,000 BTU (2.6-10.5kW)
Unit Price
£500-£3,000
Multi Split Air Conditioning
One outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units, allowing independent control of different rooms or zones. Ideal for larger properties requiring whole-house cooling.
Advantages
- Whole house solution
- Individual room control
- Single outdoor unit
Best Suited For
- Large properties
- Whole house cooling
- Individual room preferences
Key Features
- One outdoor unit, multiple indoor
- Individual zone control
- Various indoor unit types
Efficiency
Excellent
Installation
Hard
Capacity
18,000-60,000+ BTU (5.3-17.6kW+)
Unit Price
£1,500-£8,000+
Window Air Conditioning Unit
Self-contained units that fit directly into a window opening or through-wall installation. Less common in UK due to window design preferences, but effective for suitable properties.
Advantages
- Lower cost than split systems
- Single unit simplicity
- No outdoor unit required
Best Suited For
- Budget-conscious installations
- Properties with suitable windows
- Small to medium rooms
Key Features
- Single unit design
- Window or wall installation
- Built-in controls
Efficiency
Good
Installation
Medium
Capacity
5,000-18,000 BTU (1.5-5.3kW)
Unit Price
£150-£600
Ducted Air Conditioning
Central system with concealed ductwork distributing conditioned air throughout the property via ceiling/floor vents. Premium whole-house solution popular in new builds.
Advantages
- Invisible indoor units
- Whole house coverage
- Excellent air distribution
Best Suited For
- New build properties
- Large homes
- Invisible system preference
Key Features
- Concealed ductwork
- Central control
- Whole house coverage
Efficiency
Excellent
Installation
Hard
Capacity
24,000-100,000+ BTU (7-29kW+)
Unit Price
£3,000-£15,000+
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