With global warming increasing temperatures across the UK in a way that we aren’t really used to, many Brits are turning to ways to cool down their homes and work environments to make it more comfortable to live our daily lives in the summer. But with the warmer temperatures being inconsistent, is it worth investing in air conditioning for your home in the UK?
In this article, we are going to explore what air conditioning is, argue its pros and cons and allow you to ultimately come to a decision about whether it is worth installing air conditioning in your UK home.
What is air conditioning?
Air conditioning is a system with a primary function of cooling indoor air during hot weather. This is achieved by removing heat from the air and transferring it outside, through a cycle of refrigeration. In this cycle, a refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air, is compressed to increase its temperature and pressure, and then releases the heat outdoors through a condenser coil. Cool air is then circulated back into the indoor space, lowering the temperature.
In addition to cooling, air conditioning systems can also control humidity levels by removing excess moisture from the air through condensation. This helps to create a more comfortable indoor environment, as high humidity can promote the growth of mould and mildew and contribute to discomfort or illness.
Modern air conditioning systems can also come with additional features such as air filtration, which helps to remove airborne particles, allergens, and pollutants from the indoor air, improving overall air quality. Some systems also offer heating capabilities, allowing them to provide both cooling and heating functions throughout the year.
What are the advantages of air conditioning?
In the summer, when it’s 30° outside and you still have to go about your daily life, there’s often nothing better than stepping into an air conditioned building, even if it’s just for a moment. But what are the pros of installing air conditioning in your home?
Enhanced comfort
Probably the biggest advantage of air conditioning in your home is the improved comfort levels. No longer will you have to struggle through the day with a tiny desk fan and every window open.
Better quality sleep
One thing even better than being more comfortable during the day is being more comfortable at night, allowing for better quality sleep. According to Dr. Mayan Shukla, ‘the best temperature to sleep is cooler rather than warmer.’ Though fans can cool down the warm air at night, the noise can be disruptive, so investing in air conditioning may be a quieter and more effective way of cooling the room down to get a better night’s sleep.
Improved air quality
Air quality is important to our health, especially for people who suffer from respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. As well as cooling the air and making it more comfortable, the filtration system in an air conditioning unit removes water vapour and pollutants from the air, controlling the humidity and limiting the negative effects of these particles.
Reduced noise and less insects
Ever shut your window because you’re fed up with the number of flies and bugs that come in? You’re not alone. Especially if you work from home, or are a stay at home parent, having an AC unit rather than opening all the windows is one less issue to have to deal with.
Increased security
Another – and probably more important – reason that AC beats keeping the window open all day and night is the increased security. By keeping your windows closed, you are less likely to entice criminals into your home.
What are the disadvantages of air conditioning?
So, we’ve run through the advantages of air conditioning, but what about the disadvantages?
UK homes aren’t built for air conditioning
Most homes in the UK, especially older properties, have not been constructed with air conditioning in mind. Because of this, retrospectively fitting AC units into buildings can be challenging and expensive, requiring work such as installing ductwork or creating space for outside units. As well as this, adding in units can negatively impact the aesthetics of the building – especially in older or more characterful homes. They may not even be permitted in certain conservation areas or listed buildings.
High energy consumption
With the cost of living crisis in the UK at the moment, many people are trying to reduce their bills, not add to them. Air conditioning units can consume a significant amount of energy, especially if they are used frequently or ineffectively, contributing to higher energy bills.
Initial and ongoing costs
The initial installation of an air conditioning unit can be expensive, but the costs don’t stop there. The cost of running the unit can be a significant expense, as well as maintenance, servicing and repairs.
Environmental impact
Air conditioning units use refrigerants, which can be potent greenhouse gases if released into the atmosphere. Incorrect handling and disposal can contribute to climate change and cause risks to the environment.
Discomfort from temperature fluctuations
If your unit is installed incorrectly, or you have purchased the wrong size unit for your home, it could result in uneven cooling or significant fluctuations in temperature. This can lead to discomfort for you and others who live with you – with some areas being too cold while others are too warm.
How much does air conditioning cost?
According to the Eco Experts, an air conditioning unit that has both an outdoor fan and an indoor unit will cost roughly £1,200 a room, including installation. A ducted air conditioning unit costs more, closer to £3,000 per room, because these work by moving cool air through a passage in your walls.
Portable air conditioning units are a cheaper option – usually costing a couple of hundred pounds, and not needing installation. However, the downside to this is that you need to open a window to expel the heat out of. They are also very noisy, so you may as well just use a fan.
So, shall I get air conditioning?
Deciding whether or not it is worth investing in air conditioning can be a difficult consideration. While air conditioning offers undeniable benefits such as enhanced comfort, better sleep and improved air quality, it comes with significant drawbacks like high energy consumption and the challenge of retrospectively installing it in older homes not originally designed for such systems.
Additionally, the decision may hinge on individual factors such as personal comfort preferences, financial circumstances, environmental concerns, and the feasibility of installation in your specific property. Consulting with professionals in HVAC installation could also help you make a more informed decision, tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
At GreenSmart Services, we have years of experience in providing effective plumbing and heating services for your home, ensuring you stay comfortable.
If you need any advice or someone to assist you, simply get in touch and one of our team will be willing to help as much as possible.
