What affects the cost?
Domestic air-conditioning cost depends on system type, cooling capacity, number of indoor units, pipe runs, outdoor-unit access and electrical work. Multi-room and ducted systems cost materially more than a single wall-mounted split.
- Wall-mounted or ducted system
- BTU capacity
- Number of indoor units
- Pipe and condensate runs
- Outdoor condenser access
- Electrical supply upgrades
Typical cost breakdown
Regional planning examples
The examples below apply our published modelling factor to the same national benchmark. They are not claimed as observed city-wide average quotes.
Sources used for this guide
Air Conditioner Installation: Cost Breakdown 2026
Published / checked: Updated August 2026; cost table last updated May 2026
Used for: Wall-mounted and ducted air-conditioning unit, installation and electrical-work benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
How much does home air conditioning cost to install?
A current benchmark for a 12,000 BTU wall-mounted system is about £750 for the equipment plus around £1,150 installation, before some electrical extras.
Is ducted air conditioning more expensive?
Yes. Ducted systems typically have higher equipment, labour and ductwork costs than a single wall-mounted split unit.
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