Is it worth getting air conditioning in the UK

In the UK, our homes are designed to keep us warm with thick carpets and triple-glazed windows to help keep us cosy. This is great during the winter months, but in summer when temperatures can surpass 30 degrees, it can make these days and the nights in particular unbearable in the heat.  

We are predominantly a heating-dominated country, but air conditioning has grown in popularity over recent years.  It isn't only about making you more comfortable in the summer,  excess heat can be dangerous to your health, in particular, it can affect those more sensitive and vulnerable to the heat, such as babies, the elderly and the disabled. 

As heatwaves are becoming warmer and more frequent, cooling your home or business needs to be a solution and let's face it, arguing over who sits in front of the fan isn't going to cut it forever.  Let's take a look at the different types of air conditioning systems that may be right for you.  

Traditional Air Conditioning

Traditional air conditioning refers to a system that has an internal fan and an external condenser unit.  These systems tend to be the most cost-effective to install and suit many types of properties.  In some instances, you may need planning permission.  Our designers and engineers will let you know if this is the case for your property as you must ensure you have the right permissions before beginning any installation. 

Wall Mounted units 

A wall-mounted air conditioning unit is a versatile and cost-effective option.  These units have a rectangular internal fan and condenser that is mounted to an external wall.  They can be used in the home or in a small commercial building from a bedroom to an open plan living space or even a small shop.  If you would like to know if the size of your property is right for these units, give us a call and we can discuss this option with you. 

Ducted units 

A ducted air conditioning unit is more discreet than a wall-mounted unit.  What you see are the vent grilles in the wall or the ceiling.  These units are great for cooling multiple areas to the same temperature, so can be a great option for office spaces.  They are more expensive than traditional units or wall-mounted units, but aesthetically more appealing.   

Ceiling Cassette Units 

Ceiling cassette units are best suited for commercial installations.  They feature a four-way airflow so they are ideal for spaces that need cooling in multiple areas.  Places like restaurants or offices would suit a ceiling cassette unit. 

Internal Water cooled Air Conditioning units 

As mentioned above, not all properties are permitted to install traditional air conditioning units.  This is usually because they have to be fitted to an external wall.  They can affect the appearance of a building and can cause noise pollution for neighbouring properties.  When planning permission is challenging for example, in a grade I or grade II listed building, water-cooled units can be a solution.  You can still choose from the above ranges of fans, but the difference is the condenser.  This is plumbed into your mains water supply and installed inside your property.  Ultimately, they use water instead of air cooling.  They don't require planning permission as there is no external condenser unit.  

Benefits to installing air conditioning. 

Air conditioning can offer you a range of benefits depending on what you need for your home or your business.  Here are just a few below: 

1.  A better night's sleep.  We don't need to tell you how hard it can be to get a good night's sleep in the heat.  Lower room temperatures can improve your sleep, leaving you feeling fresh and ready to take on the next day. 
2.  A better mood.  We all get stressed and agitated in the heat.  Even if you love the summer, it can get a bit too much and having this space inside your home to cool down can improve your mood. 
3.  Lower Humidity.  Humidity in your home can lead to all sorts of damp and mould issues.  Removing excess moisture from the air can reduce the chances of mould and damp growth. 
4.  Reduces allergens.  More of us suffer from allergies than ever before, be it dust, pet hair or pollen.  Air conditioning can improve air quality by filtering such allergens. 
5.  Improve your property value.  Air conditioning is growing in popularity and having a system fitted could increase the value of your home. 
6. Better working environment.  Uncomfortable workspaces don't lead to a productive work environment.  A healthier, happier work environment is a benefit to your employees and in turn, your business. 
7.  Happy customers.  Comfortable environments for your customers will ensure they return and even spend more time with you in the summer months.  (I have certainly enjoyed a trip to Tesco's in a heatwave!). 
8.  Protect your IT equipment. Most electronic components are sensitive to heat and can be costly to repair or replace if damaged. 

Should I install air conditioning in my home or business? 

Of course, we are going to say yes!  Keeping cool in the summer is just as important as keeping warm in the winter.  If you would like to discuss how air conditioning could benefit you and what units would be right for you, we would be happy to talk you through your options and provide you with a FREE no-obligation quote.  Call us on 01536 903123