When Is the Best Time to Install Air Conditioning?

Most people think about air conditioning on the first hot week of summer. By then, demand is at its peak, and you may be facing a wait while the heat continues. Planning ahead makes the process smoother and means your system is ready when you need it. This guide explains when to install air conditioning, how long it takes and what to consider at different times of year.

The short answer: before you need it

The best time to install air conditioning is usually in spring or autumn. Installers tend to be less busy, survey appointments are easier to arrange, and your system will be tested and ready before the weather turns. Winter installations work well too; because most modern systems also heat, you can benefit straight away.

Spring

Spring is popular for good reason. You have time to research, arrange a survey and choose a system before summer. If permissions are needed, for example for a listed building or conservation area, there is time to sort them out. Booking in early spring gives the most flexibility.

Summer

Installing in summer is perfectly possible, and we do it all the time. However, demand rises sharply during heatwaves, so lead times can be longer. If you are thinking about summer installation, book a survey as early as you can. Once installed, you will feel the benefit immediately.

Autumn

Autumn is an excellent time. The summer rush has eased, and a reversible system will provide efficient heating through the colder months. Many people find they use heating mode to warm home offices, conservatories and extensions without running the whole central heating system. By the next summer, the system is already familiar.

Winter

Winter installations are straightforward. Outdoor work can be done in most weather, and the system can be commissioned in heating mode. If you have a cold room, such as a conservatory, loft room or garden office, a winter installation gives immediate comfort. It also means you are ahead of the queue for summer.

Timing around other projects

If you are planning building work, such as an extension, loft conversion or renovation, the best time to plan air conditioning is during the design stage. Pipework, cables and condensate drainage can be hidden in walls and ceilings before plastering, and the electrical supply can be planned in. We are happy to work with your builder or architect. See our guide to loft conversion air conditioning.

How long does installation take?

A single-room wall-mounted system is often installed in a day. Multi-room systems, ducted systems and installations with complex pipe routes take longer. The survey, quote and scheduling come first; the time between survey and installation depends on demand and any permissions needed. We give you a clear timeline when we quote.

Permissions can affect timing

For most houses, air conditioning can be installed without a formal application, but if your home is listed, in a conservation area, a flat or a commercial property, you may need permission or consent, which takes time. We advise on what is likely to be needed but do not submit applications on your behalf. See our guide to planning permission for air conditioning.

Replacing an old system

If an existing system is getting old, uses an older refrigerant or has had repeated faults, plan its replacement rather than waiting for failure in a heatwave. Under the F-Gas phase-down, refrigerants used in older systems may become harder to source over time. Modern systems use lower-impact refrigerants such as R32 and are more efficient. See our guide to upgrading your air conditioning.

Servicing timing

For existing systems, spring is a good time for servicing before heavy use in summer, and autumn before relying on heating mode. Our servicing ranges from £179 to £389 depending on the system, and our Comfort Club covers routine care for £14.99 a month.

What happens on installation day

Our engineers arrive at the agreed time, protect floors and furniture, and fit the indoor and outdoor units. The pipework is pressure tested and evacuated before refrigerant is released into the system, and the system is commissioned and tested. All refrigerant work is done by F-Gas certified engineers. Before leaving, we show you how to use the controls, explain filter cleaning and leave everything tidy.

Costs and VAT

Installations start from £1,300, and the final price depends on the system and your home. Domestic air conditioning installations are currently zero-rated for VAT. We provide a fixed quote after survey. See our air conditioning installation page, or read about homes we look after in Colchester.

Plan ahead

If you are thinking about air conditioning for next summer, now is a good time to get the survey done. You can take your time to decide, and we can schedule installation for when it suits you.