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How Much Does It Cost to Install a Split Air Conditioning System

  • eriknava13
  • Jun 13, 2024
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 18, 2025







Why homeowners are asking about costs

With UK summers getting hotter and homes often built for heat retention, demand for split air conditioning systems is rising quickly. Many homeowners across UK now ask the same question:

👉 How much does it cost to install air conditioning in my home?

The answer depends on room size, system type, and installation complexity. At EACON LTD, we believe in clear, transparent pricing so you understand exactly what you’re paying for.


Average costs for split AC in the UK

While every home is different, here are some average guide prices for professionally installed split systems in Reading and surrounding areas:

  • Single split system (1 room, 2.0–2.5 kW): from £1,300–£2,400 (supply, install & commissioning.)

  • Larger room split (3.5–5.0 kW): from £1,800–£3,000

  • Multi-split system (2–3 rooms): from £3,500–£6,000 depending on layout

  • Premium brands (Daikin, Mitsubishi, MHI): usually at the higher end of the range

These prices include:

  • Supply of indoor & outdoor unit

  • Copper piping & insulation and all necessary materials

  • Trunking (neat plastic casings for pipes)

  • Cantilever arms or brackets for the outdoor unit

  • Electrical connections to isolator (between outdoor unit and Isolator)

  • Full commissioning and testing

  • Handover with controls explained


Factors that affect the cost

  1. Room size & heat load Bigger rooms or spaces with large windows need higher-capacity systems, which cost more. A loft conversion may only need a 2.5 kW unit, while a large open-plan living room could require 5.0 kW or more.

  2. Number of rooms If you want AC in more than one space, a multi-split system is usually more cost-effective than several single splits.

  3. Pipe route complexityThe distance and difficulty of running copper pipes between indoor and outdoor units affects labour time. A ground-floor installation with easy access is cheaper than running pipes two storeys up through walls.

  4. Outdoor unit location Mounting on walls with cantilever arms, flat roofs, or restricted access areas can add to the price.

  5. Brand choice Premium brands like Daikin, MHI and Mitsubishi Electric often cost more upfront but offer longer life, quieter operation, and better efficiency.

  6. Electrical requirements Most systems need a local rotary isolator within 1 metre of the outdoor unit. If your home doesn’t have this, an electrician may need to install one before AC installation.


Example projects

  • Reading townhouse: Installed a 2.5 kW wall-mounted split in a loft bedroom. Cost: £1,450 all in.

  • Berkshire detached home: Fitted a 3-room multi-split system (living room + 2 bedrooms). Cost: £4,200.

  • Oxford home office: Compact single split for a garden office. Cost: £1,300.

  • London flat: Two ducted concealed indoor units linked to one outdoor. Cost: £4,800.

Running costs

Modern inverter-driven splits are highly efficient. On average:

  • A 2.5 kW unit costs £0.10–£0.20 per hour to run in cooling mode.

  • Using AC for 4–6 hours on a hot day adds only £1–£2 to your daily electricity bill.

  • Many systems double as heaters, using up to 30–40% less energy than electric radiators.


Benefits of professional installation

Choosing the cheapest installer can backfire if they’re not qualified. Only an FGAS-certified contractor can legally handle refrigerants in the UK. With EACON LTD you get:

  • Safe, compliant installation with full certification.

  • Neat workmanship (no messy pipework or drilling).

  • Correct system sizing for efficiency.

  • Commissioning report for warranty protection.


Common questions about AC costs

Q: Can I supply my own unit and just pay for installation?Some homeowners buy units online, but manufacturers often void warranties. We recommend supply + install for full protection.

Q: Will AC increase my bills a lot? No. With inverter technology, running costs are surprisingly low. In many cases, heating with AC is cheaper than using gas or electric radiators.

Q: Is finance available? Yes. We can discuss staged payments or guide you toward finance options depending on the project size.

Q: Do I need planning permission? For most houses, AC is permitted development if the outdoor unit is below 0.6m³ and installed away from boundaries. Flats or listed buildings usually require permission.


Why choose EACON LTD

  • Local expertise: Serving Reading, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire & London.

  • FGAS-certified contractor: Safe, legal installations every time.

  • Premium brands: Daikin, MHI, Mitsubishi Electric.

  • Customer care: From survey to aftercare, we focus on detail, budget, and expectations.

  • Transparent quotes: No hidden extras—clear breakdown of materials and labour.


Takeaway

Installing a split air conditioning system in Reading and Berkshire is an investment in year-round comfort. Costs vary from around £1,800 for a single room to £6,000+ for multi-room systems, depending on size and complexity.

With EACON LTD, you get expert advice, neat installation, and full compliance—backed by years of experience with top brands.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: 07802 579 775

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