Domestic air conditioning can change all that. Less common in the UK than in some countries overseas, it’s growing in popularity as more people start to appreciate the benefits it can bring to a home.

While domestic air conditioning is growing in popularity there remains some confusion about which might be the most suitable. The variety in air conditioning options reflects the very different conditions that are present in different homes. From rambling old properties to well-insulated new builds, all are regularly fitted with air conditioning units.

Let’s begin by taking a look at what domestic air conditioning is and what it does.

What is domestic air conditioning?

Domestic air conditioning, often referred to as AC or A/C, is a system that’s used to cool down the temperature in a room or an inside space. It does this by removing the existing heat and moisture from the room. This is done by taking warm air into the system and then dispersing cold air back into the room. An air conditioning system regulates the temperature, humidity and air quality in an indoor space.

Why do we use air conditioning systems in our homes?

Air conditioning systems help to create a pleasant environment in our homes. Until fairly recently they have been less common in UK homes than in other parts of the world. That’s beginning to change, with the average UK temperature rising year on year as a result of climate change. With long, hot summers likely to become the norm, air conditioning will play a vital role in not only keeping us comfortable, but also helping us stay healthy.

How much does it cost to put air conditioning in a house?

As with any domestic appliance, the cost of air conditioning will depend on a number of factors. This includes the size of your home as well as the brand and model of air conditioning system you choose. In addition to the cost of the unit itself, you will also need to consider the cost of installation. Air conditioning systems in the UK must be installed and maintained by a registered gas engineer. Installation costs are around £1,000 per indoor unit on average. This means that a single room unit can be installed for around £1,000, and a four-room multi-unit split will cost around £6,000. The ultimate cost will be determined by the complexity of the particular installation.

What are the different types of air conditioning units available for the home?

Wall-mounted units

These are compact, tidy and out of way whilst still managing to heat or cool the whole room evenly due to the position.

Floor standing units

These units can be placed in a discrete and out-of-the-way position. They can replace radiators or other heating appliances as they are able to offer both heating and cooling options. Sometimes referred to as portable units, they can be a cost-effective, simple and practical option for a wide variety of domestic settings.

Through window/wall-mounted system

This type of unit is installed into a room window and is designed to cool that specific room. An evaporator coil is used to cool the interior and a condenser coil releases the hot air outside. Window air conditioning works by removing both the heat and the humidity. No external pipework through the building is needed for this type of unit.

Ceiling cassettes

Ceiling cassettes are another neat and tidy, out-of-the-way form of air conditioning unit that can be used in a variety of different settings. Their ceiling mounted position means they are effective at evenly spreading temperatures.

Ducted units

Ducted units allow for the installation of comfortable and inconspicuous air outlets at the ceiling. Because they’re inconspicuous they are ideal for various room arrangements, no matter their shape or size. Because they can be concealed they make little impact on the overall look of the room. They’re also effective at evenly distributing the cooling and heating load.

 How to choose air conditioning for your home?

What factors should you consider when deciding on an air conditioning unit for your home?

The size of your room

The most important factor when choosing an AC unit is the size of your room. If you choose an air conditioner that’s too small for your room then you won’t feel much difference. If it’s too large, your system will be energy hungry and wasteful as it continually turns on and off attempting to regulate your temperature.

Speed settings

Your air conditioning system should contain a fan with an adjustable speed to enable you to control the flow of clean air around the room. If you find your room is particularly hot and stuffy, a higher setting will allow you to quickly cool your room. There should also be a quieter, gentler setting if it’s being used at night, particularly in a bedroom.

How to select an air conditioner for different rooms in your house

Living room

The living room needs to be comfortable and pleasant with a temperature that allows you to relax. Your air conditioning unit should be discreet, reasonably quiet and shouldn’t distract from the overall look of the room.

Bedroom

Ensuring you have the right temperature to sleep at night is key. As a bedroom aircon will mostly be required at night, it needs to be both powerful enough to have an impact on stuffy nighttime temperatures at the same time as being quiet enough not to disturb you.

Kitchen

Kitchens have big fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels, and the air conditioning system in a kitchen needs to be able to cope with these. It should be able to comfortably cope with the fluctuations in temperature without being wasteful of energy. As with every other room, attention needs to be paid to the size of the room in which it’s being installed if it’s to run efficiently.

What type of home cooling unit is the most efficient?

The efficiency of any type of cooling unit in your home will largely depend on how well it’s suited to the size of your room and the overall conditions. All units will have an energy efficiency ratio and will provide a range of information to help you make an informed decision. If you’re struggling to decide which type of unit might be best for you then it may be helpful to talk to an air conditioning specialist.

The friendly and knowledgeable team at Enviro Chill are always happy to answer any questions and offer advice. Why not contact us today to find out more?

What is the most reliable domestic air conditioning brand?

There are a number of excellent brands of air conditioning units on the market. At Enviro Chill, we only work with the very best. These include:

• Toshiba Air Conditioning
• LG
• Fujitsu
• Daikin
• Mitsubishi Electric

All of these brands offer high levels of reliability and efficiency.

Enviro Chill is the number one choice for domestic air conditioning in North West of England

If you’re looking for domestic air conditioning supply, installation, and maintenance in Liverpool, Skelmersdale, Warrington, Chester, St Helens, and across the North West, then Enviro Chill can help.

Our team of experienced air conditioning engineers offers expert advice, with a free, no-obligation quote for any work you may require. We can also arrange an on-site survey to better understand your specific requirements and to answer any questions you might have.

Call us on 0151 285 1818 or use our online contact form to find out more.

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Domestic air conditioning systems are now frequently fitted into modern and new build homes at the development stage. What if your home is older and you want to install an air conditioning system. How easy is it? Do you need any kind of permission and what other issues should you be aware of? Is air conditioning suitable for council and social housing homes?

Do you need planning permission to retrofit air conditioning?

As a general rule, you won’t require planning permission for smaller air conditioning units. This means you won’t need to file planning permission prior to having your air conditioning installed. There are some things to bear in mind, however, if you’re installing a unit that has any kind of exterior presence.

Your external air conditioning unit will need to follow these regulations:

• It isn’t bigger than 0.6m³
• It’s at least a metre away from any property boundaries
• It’s more than a metre away from the edge of a flat roof
• It isn’t fitted on a pitched roof
• You also need to ensure that there isn’t a wind turbine on the property.

If you have any doubts about your air conditioning system and where it stands as regards planning permission you should contact your local authority prior to installation. It’s better to wait for a response than to have to remove or replace your system once it’s in place.

Are there any exceptions?

UK planning laws are famously complicated and there are some situations where any air conditioning installation will need to follow specific regulations. These tend to be when your property is on any type of designated land. This might include:

• A Conservation Area
• An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• A National Park
• A World Heritage Site

Always check with your local authority planning office before you install air conditioning in any of the above settings.

Larger units

If you have a large home and are looking for a larger air conditioning unit then you might have to follow additional rules. You might also have to follow additional rules if you’re planning a larger commercial air conditioning installation. In the case of most domestic retrofit installations, it’s unlikely this will be applicable.

How do you retrofit air conditioning systems?

It’s a common misconception that retrofitting air conditioning systems into a home can be a difficult task. In fact, in most cases, it’s a relatively simple process. The key considerations are ensuring that the air conditioning unit doesn’t look out of place or ugly. Modern air conditioning units are suited for a wide variety of different settings and a professional installer can advise what will be the most appropriate for your property.

If your property is a council home, social housing or rented it may still be possible to install an air conditioning system with appropriate permission from your landlord.

What are the benefits of modern air conditioning units?

Modern domestic air conditioning units allow you to maintain a steady, comfortable temperature all year round. It makes your home a comfortable retreat whatever the weather outside is doing. They will also help improve the overall air quality in your home, removing pollutants from the air and reducing the health risks.

Air conditioning will help you sleep better at night, as well as dehumidifying your home reducing damp problems. A domestic air conditioning system can also make your home more appealing to a range of potential homebuyers.

Enviro Chill is the North West’s leading supplier and installer of domestic air conditioning units.

Enviro Chill is based in Liverpool and have clients across the North West of England. Whether you’re in Chester, Skelmersdale, Warrington, St Helens, Birkenhead, or elsewhere in the region, we can get your new air conditioning system up and running safely in no time at all.

Our team of experienced and qualified engineers can install the perfect air conditioning system for your home. Whatever your requirements, we provide an efficient and professional installation service that is tailored to your needs.

Contact us today to find out more or call the team at Enviro Chill directly on 0151 285 1818 to discuss your air conditioning requirements.

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So, just how effective are they, and how exactly do they work?

Air conditioning systems have a long history, dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. During the early years, they were used primarily in commercial settings to help increase productivity. These days, they’re an increasing addition to homes, particularly in temperate climates like the UK.

They work on the same essential principle as they did over a hundred years ago. So, if you’re considering purchasing your first home air conditioner what should you expect?

At its most basic, the air conditioning system contains two actions that occur simultaneously. Warm air is cooled as it blows across a cold cooling coil full of refrigerant. Inside the home, heat is absorbed into the refrigerant as the refrigerant turns from liquid to gas. The cooled air is distributed back to the house. The refrigerant gas is compressed before entering a large coil. Heat is then released outside as the refrigerant turns back to a liquid and a large fan pulls outdoor air through the outdoor coil rejecting the heat absorbed from the house. This process then repeats itself to maintain the required temperature in the room.

How much does air conditioning cost?

The overall cost of fitting air conditioning can differ widely depending on the type, and scale of air conditioning unit you’re looking for. You will obviously pay less for a standalone air conditioning unit, but they may not be as effective. In terms of running costs, both standalone units and split-unit or fixed air conditioners cost the same. Fixed air conditioners start from around £500, but prices vary depending on the size of your home, what you require the unit to do and your choice of an air conditioner. They must be installed and maintained by a registered gas engineer. The domestic air conditioner installation costs are around £1,000 per indoor unit.

Does home insurance cover air conditioners?

Home insurance covers air conditioning to the same extent as the rest of your home is covered. Damage caused by fires, falling trees, vandalism, lightning strikes and sometimes flooding are all covered in standard homeowners policies. On the other hand, normal wear and tear or accidental damage are not. So, if your AC simply breaks after 10 years of use, then you won’t be reimbursed for repair or replacement. However, it is possible to purchase specialist cover for air conditioning.

How are air conditioners serviced?

As a general guide, you should have your air conditioning unit serviced at least once a year, even if you don’t believe it has any noticeable defects. Some of the signs that your unit might need servicing include if it makes more noise than usual, or if it takes longer to cool a room. If your energy costs increase noticeably, this could mean that your air conditioning unit needs attention.

For advice about air conditioning for your home and to have your questions answered, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of professional engineers.

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An increasing number of homeowners are having the latest domestic air-conditioning systems installed in their property. And for new builds, installing air conditioning now is the perfect time to get your property temperature-ready straight from the start.

Here we take a look at air conditioning in more detail. How does it work and is it expensive to run?

What are air conditioners?

 At their simplest, air conditioners are machines that take air in, and alter or treat it, before recirculating it back out into the home. Most people associate air conditioners with cooling down hot air in warm climates, but they can also be used to heat up cold air, or even remove the humidity from the room.

How do air conditioners work?

Different air conditioning systems work in different ways, with varying levels of complexity. Here are some of the basic stages that an air-conditioning unit goes through to help keep your room at a steady ambient temperature.

• The desired temperature is set with a thermostat, then ambient sensors communicate with the A/C unit, automatically starting, or pausing the mechanical cooling process.
• If necessary, the unit will then begin sucking in warm air from the room, through a series of power fans known as the ‘blower motor’. This air is then channelled over a network of hollow, sealed metal coils.
• It’s in these metal coils that you’ll find the refrigerant compounds. These are chemicals that change from a liquid to a gas, and in doing so they naturally absorb heat. As this happens, heat is lost from the metal coils.
• As the air passes over the coils, it too drops in temperature. Moisture in the air is deposited on the coils as condensation and is drained off.
• Because there’s a finite amount of refrigerant contained in the coils, the gas will need to be changed back into a liquid, so that the cycle can keep running. A compressor in the unit will kick-in and force the gas to liquefy.
• Reversing the process also reverses the result, creating hot air which is then expelled. For this reason, the compressor is usually located on an exterior roof or wall.
• These processes can be looped continuously to create the perfect ambient temperature in your home for as long as it’s required.

What are the benefits of home air conditioning?

There are lots of good reasons to install air conditioning in your home, some perhaps you’ll already have thought of, others that might be new to you.

Here are just a few of the benefits that a contemporary air conditioning system for your home can bring:

• You can maintain a steady, comfortable temperature all year round, making your home a sanctuary from whatever the weather outside is doing.
• Poor air quality in some parts of the UK is a real problem, with serious consequences for public health. Air conditioning helps to circulate and filter the air. This helps to remove pollutants from the air, reducing the health risks. This can be particularly important for asthma and allergy sufferers.
• A modern home air conditioner allows you to sleep more easily. Whether in the sticky heat of the summer, or a cold winter’s night, the steady ambient temperature provided by modern air conditioning systems makes for a more comfortable environment in which to sleep.
• During the winter months, an air conditioning system can help to reduce your heating bills. Modern systems can convert ambient air into cool or warm air.
• An air conditioning system helps to make your home more appealing to a variety of potential homebuyers
• They can help to dehumidify your home, reducing the risk of problems such as damp, particularly in older properties.
• Smart temperature control means that you can make your home warmer or cooler at the touch of a button.
• Modern units are efficient, discreet and don’t take up much space.

How much does a home air conditioning unit cost to run?

It’s a common misconception that air conditioning systems are expensive to run. While it’s difficult to give a precise figure for very different homes and levels of usage, it’s important to recognise that modern air-conditioning units are highly cost-effective. As it helps to maintain a steady ambient temperature in your home it reduces the need for fluctuations in your heating. As with other technology, improvements and innovations are making air conditioning units increasingly efficient to run. Thanks to new inverter technologies, many air conditioning systems are given the highest A+++ rating for energy efficiency.

At an estimated cost of 8p per hour to run for the average indoor 2KW unit, a contemporary, bespoke air-conditioning system for your home really won’t cost the earth!

Your new home air conditioning system is just a phone call away

Here at Enviro Chill, we only install the best home air conditioning units for our clients. Based in Liverpool, our team of professional air conditioning engineers’ tailor the installation to suit the unique requirements of your home.

We can arrange an on-site survey to better understand your specific requirements and to answer any questions you might have. If you decide to go ahead, our qualified engineers will have your system up and running safely in no time at all.  To keep your system in perfect working order we also offer service plans from just £50 a year, giving you complete peace of mind.

Call us on 0151 285 1818, or use our online contact form to find out more.

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