Estimate likely system size and costs for your home, then request quotes from vetted UK installers when you're ready. Free for homeowners and no obligation.
Tenants need written landlord permission, which can be difficult to obtain.
Do you have outside wall or outdoor space for the external unit?
The outdoor unit needs about 1m x 1m of space with good airflow.
Is your home in a conservation area or a listed building?
Some homes need an extra planning or consent check before an outdoor unit can be fitted.
During the survey, your installer will confirm power. Sometimes they recommend adding an outdoor spur/outlet; not always, and costs are usually modest. Make sure it's discussed in the survey so there are no surprises.
For a standard self-funded multi-split AC installation, no. It normally works alongside your existing boiler and radiators, providing room-by-room cooling and supplementary heating through wall-mounted units. Air-to-air systems do not usually provide hot water for taps and showers. If you use the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, different rules apply: any existing fossil-fuel heating system must be fully replaced, so your installer must confirm whether the project is eligible.
Is this service free?
Yes. Our homeowner tools and quote request service are free to use. If you choose an installer introduced through AC Journey, we may receive an introduction fee from that installer, but this does not increase the price you pay or affect which installers you can compare.
Do I need a grant?
Not necessarily. Many homeowners pay directly for comfort upgrades. Ofgem lists a GBP 2,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant for eligible residential air-to-air heat pump installations in England and Wales. The project must use an appropriately MCS-certified installer and meet the scheme's property, heating, product and installation rules, so confirm practical availability before relying on it. If you're on certain benefits or have a low income, the Warm Homes: Local Grant in England, or ECO4 until 31 December 2026, may also be relevant.
What about noise from AC systems?
Modern multi-split AC units are very quiet, typically around 19-25 dB indoors. Outdoor units are louder, but a good installer will advise on siting, mounting, and planning considerations so noise is managed properly.
How long does installation take?
Most simple domestic air conditioning installations take around 1 day for a one or two-room system. Multi-room systems, longer pipe runs, electrical work, access issues, or planning constraints can extend that, so your installer should confirm the timeline after reviewing the site.
Will this improve my EPC rating?
Possibly, but not in a simple guaranteed way. EPC impact depends on the system, controls, existing heating setup, and how the upgrade is assessed. Treat comfort, running costs, and suitability for your home as the main decision factors rather than EPC uplift alone.
How do I choose an installer?
Look for relevant certifications. F-Gas certification is important for refrigerant work, and Boiler Upgrade Scheme projects must use an MCS-certified installer. Check recent reviews, compare more than one quote, and ask clear questions about warranties, servicing, controls, and system specification. We help by connecting you with vetted installers so you can compare on a like-for-like basis.
Is there 0% VAT on AC/heat pump systems?
Fixed, permanently installed air source heat pumps that provide heating, including many reversible AC systems, are currently zero-rated for VAT on installation until 31 March 2027. Portable or moveable units are excluded. Always confirm eligibility with your installer and official HMRC guidance at purchase time.
What funding or grants could I get?
For eligible residential properties in England and Wales, Ofgem lists GBP 2,500 towards an air-to-air heat pump installation. An appropriately MCS-certified installer must confirm the project meets the scheme rules, apply for the voucher and deduct any approved grant upfront. Installer availability can vary, so do not assume the grant applies until it is confirmed in writing. Separately, the Warm Homes: Local Grant can fully fund energy upgrades for eligible low-income households in England, and ECO4 runs until 31 December 2026. See our air conditioning grants guide on the Learn page for the current position.
Do I need planning permission?
Not always. Most modern fixed AC systems can heat as well as cool, so for many houses in England they may be treated like an air source heat pump rather than a cooling-only unit. The answer still depends on your property and where the outdoor unit goes, and rules differ across the UK. Flats, leasehold homes, listed buildings, conservation areas and very visible outdoor units need extra care, so your installer should flag anything that needs a planning or consent check.
Can I control AC from my phone?
Yes. Most modern systems offer Wi-Fi connectivity via built-in modules or optional add-ons. Manufacturer apps let you adjust temperature, switch modes, and set schedules remotely. Ask your installer if the quote includes Wi-Fi; it is sometimes an optional extra.
How do I contact AC Journey?
For homeowner questions about quote requests, email hello@acjourney.co.uk. Installer, account, or payment questions should go to support@acjourney.co.uk. We keep contact by email so we can review the details properly and route your question to the right place.