How Many UK Homes Have Air Con And Why More Now Want It
Less than 5% of UK homes have air con. In the US, most homes do. In the UK, it was once seen as a high end add on. That view is now set to shift.
Each year, heat in the UK lasts for more days. Hot spells are more long. More homes now trap heat. As a result, more home owners say they wish they had air con.
Why Air Con Is Rare In The UK
There are four key facts:
- Mild past sums
- Old brick homes
- High set up cost
- Low need in past years
UK homes were built to keep heat in, not out. Thick brick walls and small vents work well in cold months. They do not work well in 30C heat.
Fans were once seen as fine. Few saw a need for more. That mind set is now at risk.
Heat Is Now A Real Risk
Hot days above 30C are more common. Some UK towns have seen 40C. This was rare in past years.
Heat can harm sleep, work, and health. Old folk, kids, and those with ill health face more risk in high heat.
| Issue | Risk In Heat |
|---|---|
| Poor sleep | Low mood, low work rate |
| Heat rash | Skin pain |
| Heat stroke | Can be life risk |
Why More Homes Now Over Heat
New homes use big glass, flat roof, and open plan lay out. This can trap sun heat all day.
Flats in towns face more heat due to road, brick, and low air flow. This is known as heat zone risk.
Is Air Con The Fix?
Air con can cool one room or full home. New split units need no large duct work. Wall units are small and neat.
Most new units are A rate or above. They can both cool and heat, which adds year round use.
Pros And Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast cool air | Upfront cost |
| Better sleep | Fit work in old homes |
| Health aid | Power use in peak heat |
| Heat mode in cold | May need plan ok |
Cost Guide
A basic split unit may cost from £1,500 per home. Full UK roll out could cost over £40bn.
Run cost will vary by use. Off peak rate and high rate units can cut bills.
Other Ways To Cool A Home
- Shade blinds
- Loft insul
- Air vents at night
- Cool roof coat
- Green roof
These can help, but in long hot spells they may not be enough.
Plan Now For Hot Years
Heat in the UK will rise. Air con is no more just a nice add on. For many homes, it may soon be key for rest, work, and health.
Now is the time to plan a cool, safe home.