Fixington

AC Replacement

Trade: Heating Engineer

⭐ Introduction

Air conditioning (AC) replacement means removing an old or faulty AC unit and fitting a new one in your home. While not as common as heating systems, more UK homeowners are installing or upgrading air conditioning to improve comfort, especially during warmer months. You might need an AC replacement if your existing unit is no longer efficient, breaks down frequently, or you want to switch to a more eco-friendly or quieter model.

Replacing an AC system ensures reliable cooling, better air quality, and often improved energy efficiency. It’s a specialist job best handled by a qualified heating engineer who understands UK regulations, including those relating to refrigerants.

🔧 What the job involves

AC replacement usually involves several key stages:

  • Assessment: A heating engineer will check your existing setup and advise on the best replacement options.
  • Removal: Safely disconnecting and removing the old air conditioning unit, including handling refrigerants in compliance with F-Gas regulations.
  • Preparation: Making any necessary adjustments to your property, such as modifying mounting brackets, plumbing, or electrical points.
  • Installation: Fitting the new AC unit, connecting refrigerant pipes, electrical wiring, condensation drainage, and controls.
  • Testing: Ensuring the system works correctly, cools efficiently, and passes safety checks.
  • Certification: Providing you with any relevant paperwork, such as F-Gas compliance certificates and manufacturer warranty details.

UK-qualified engineers will follow legal requirements on refrigerant handling (F-Gas Regulations) and, in some cases, Building Regulations relating to electrical installations.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a reputable heating engineer or installer for advice and to arrange a site visit.
  2. On-site survey: The engineer checks your current AC, assesses your needs, and discusses replacement options.
  3. Receive quote: You’ll get a detailed estimate covering parts, labour, and any extras.
  4. Book the job: Agree on dates and confirm the booking.
  5. Day of installation:
    • The engineer removes the old unit safely.
    • Prepares your property for the new system.
    • Installs the replacement AC unit and completes all connections.
    • Tests the equipment to ensure it runs properly.
  6. Wrap-up:
    • Engineer explains how to use and maintain the new system.
    • Provides paperwork including any certificates and warranties.
    • Removes debris and tidies up the work area.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Typically charged hourly or as a fixed fee; expect around £150–£300 depending on complexity.
  • Materials/parts: New AC unit prices vary depending on size and type (e.g. split systems, ducted units), from approximately £600 upwards.
  • Extras: May include electrical upgrades, new wall brackets, or extra pipework.
  • Disposal: Safe removal and environmentally friendly disposal of old refrigerants and equipment, often included but sometimes charged separately (£50–£100).
  • Certification: F-Gas compliance documentation usually included in installation cost.

Example cost breakdown:

Item Approximate Cost (£)
Labour (1 day) 200
New AC unit 750
Extras (brackets, pipework) 100
Disposal and certification 75
Total estimated cost 1,125

📊 What affects the price

  • Property access and location of the existing unit (e.g. difficult-to-reach places).
  • Complexity of the installation or replacement (e.g. ducted vs. split systems).
  • Whether electrical upgrades are needed (compliance with UK Building Regulations).
  • The size and efficiency rating of the AC unit chosen.
  • Requirement to remove and safely dispose of refrigerants (F-Gas regulations).
  • Urgency or scheduling preferences.
  • Additional work such as plastering or decorating after installation.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple replacement (straight swap of similar model): usually 4 to 6 hours.
  • More complex installs (new pipe runs, ducted systems, electrical work): 1 to 2 days.
  • Larger or customised systems may take longer, with follow-up visits possible for commissioning or adjustments.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Replacing an AC unit is not generally a DIY job. Handling refrigerants requires proper certification under the UK’s F-Gas regulations to protect the environment and ensure safety. Electrical work often needs to meet Building Regulations, which requires a qualified professional.

Attempting to move or fit an AC system without the correct knowledge and tools can be dangerous and may invalidate warranties or insurance cover. It is strongly recommended to hire a qualified heating engineer who is registered and compliant with UK regulations.

💰 Typical UK price range

You can expect to pay approximately £900 to £2,500+ for a professional AC replacement, depending on the unit size, type, property, and complexity. Prices normally include VAT at 20%, but always confirm this with your installer.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Ask for recommendations or check reviews before selecting an installer.
  • Make sure your heating engineer is qualified and F-Gas registered.
  • Clear the work area to enable easy access for the engineer.
  • Understand your new system’s controls before installation.
  • Keep all paperwork including installation certificates and manufacturer warranties.
  • Schedule annual servicing to maintain efficiency and prolong the unit’s lifespan.
  • Check whether your home insurance covers your AC system.

Following these steps will help ensure your AC replacement goes smoothly, giving you reliable cooling for years to come.