Fixington

Air Conditioning Installation

Trade: Heating Engineer

⭐ Introduction

Air conditioning installation is the process of fitting a system that cools, and often dehumidifies, the air inside your home. While often thought of as a luxury, air conditioning can be a valuable addition for homes that struggle with overheating in the summer or need extra comfort year-round.

In the UK, with increasingly warm summers, more homeowners are considering air conditioning. It’s especially helpful in rooms where heat builds up—like loft conversions, conservatories, or homes with poor ventilation. If you find yourself waking up hot, struggling to concentrate, or unable to cool down on warmer days, installing air conditioning might be a worthwhile investment.

🔧 What the job involves

Air conditioning installation involves fitting a system comprising indoor and outdoor units connected by refrigerant pipes and electrical wiring. The most common type for homes is a split system, which has:

  • An indoor unit mounted on a wall or ceiling that blows cool air.
  • An outdoor compressor/condenser unit installed outside the house.

A heating engineer or accredited installer will assess the best location for units, run refrigerant and electrical connections through walls or ceilings, and set up the controls. Modern systems often include remote controls or smartphone integration for easy temperature adjustment.

The installation must comply with UK regulations, including the F-Gas Regulations, which govern the safe handling of refrigerant gases. Only qualified installers can handle refrigerants due to environmental and safety concerns.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial Enquiry: Contact a trained installer or heating engineer for advice. They’ll discuss your needs and the suitability of air conditioning for your property.

  2. Site Survey: The installer visits your home, inspects where units might go, checks existing wiring and structure, and discusses options like unit type, cooling capacity, and control features. You’ll receive a quotation.

  3. Agree Quotation: Review and accept the quote. Arrange a convenient installation date.

  4. Pre-Installation Preparation: Clear access to install locations, ensure power supply is available, and discuss where outdoor units will sit.

  5. Installation Day: The engineer installs the indoor and outdoor units, runs refrigerant lines, connects electrics, and tests the system for performance and leaks.

  6. System Commissioning and Handover: The system is set up and explained to you, including how to operate it, maintenance tips, and warranty details.

  7. Certification: The installer provides relevant paperwork, including F-Gas certification confirming safe refrigerant handling.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Typically covers survey time, installation hours, wiring, and commissioning. Labour costs usually range from £500 to £1,200 depending on complexity.

  • Materials/Parts: This includes the air conditioning units themselves, refrigerant, pipework, electrical cables, mounting brackets, and insulation. Systems generally cost between £1,000 and £3,000 for typical installations.

  • Disposal: Removal and responsible disposal of old units or materials, if applicable — usually a small fee (£50–£150).

  • Certification: F-Gas certification and any safety paperwork are often included, but confirm this upfront.

  • Extras: Additional wiring, upgrades to your electrical system, or installing a dedicated circuit may cost more.

Example:

  • Labour: £800
  • 2.5 kW split system unit: £1,500
  • Installation materials: £250
  • Disposal of old equipment: £100
  • Total estimate: approx. £2,650 (excluding VAT)

📊 What affects the price

  • Location and accessibility (e.g., upstairs rooms, hard-to-reach external walls).
  • Complexity of running pipework through walls or ceilings.
  • Size and type of system installed (single room vs multi-room).
  • Any rewiring or electrical upgrades needed for safety or capacity.
  • Compliance with F-Gas Regulations and other health and safety standards.
  • Whether a new circuit breaker or consumer unit upgrade is required.
  • Need for remedial works like plaster repair or external brackets.
  • Timescale for installation — urgent or out-of-hours work may cost more.
  • Property type (flat, detached house) and local planning restrictions if relevant.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple straight swap (like replacing an existing unit): 4 to 6 hours.
  • Typical new split system installation: 1 to 2 days.
  • More complex setups (multi-room systems or difficult access): 2 to 4 days or more.

Your installer should give a clear timeline after the survey.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Air conditioning installation is not usually suitable for DIY unless you are a qualified heating engineer or electrician with F-Gas certification. Handling refrigerants requires specialist training and equipment due to environmental risks and safety rules under UK F-Gas Regulations.

Incorrect installation may also invalidate warranties, cause leaks, or lead to electrical hazards.

For safety, compliance, legal and insurance reasons, hire a professional installer with relevant certifications.

💰 Typical UK price range

Expect to pay between £2,000 and £4,000 for a standard single-room air conditioning installation. This is a rough estimate and prices vary by location, property, system size, and complexity. VAT at 20% is usually added unless you qualify for a reduced rate or exemption.

Larger multi-room or whole-house systems can cost significantly more depending on the number of units and control options.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Research your options: Consider energy efficiency ratings and system capacity appropriate for your room size.
  • Get multiple quotes: Comparing installers ensures fair pricing and choice.
  • Check credentials: Use F-Gas registered installers and ask about experience with similar properties.
  • Prepare the space: Clear access to indoor and outdoor installation points beforehand.
  • Keep paperwork: Save all quotes, invoices, and certification documents for warranty and future servicing.
  • Plan for servicing: Regular maintenance keeps your system efficient and prolongs lifespan. Many manufacturers recommend annual checks.
  • Understand controls: Ask the installer to explain how to operate and programme your system properly.

By understanding the process and working with a qualified professional, you can enjoy comfortable, cool summers in your home for years to come.