How much does commercial air conditioning cost for a business in the UK?

It’s one of the most common questions we hear at A.S Cooling Ltd: “How much does commercial air conditioning cost?”

The truth is, there's no simple answer. The cost of a commercial air conditioning system for a business in the UK is a complex matter, influenced by a variety of factors. From the size of your premises to the type of system you choose, the final price can vary dramatically. 

However, we can provide a comprehensive breakdown of the costs involved, helping you budget effectively and make an informed decision for your business.

Initial Installation of Commercial Air Conditioning and System Costs

The most significant portion of your investment will be the initial purchase and installation of the air conditioning system. This is where the biggest variables come into play.

The Type of System

The kind of air conditioning system you select is a primary cost driver. There are several options available, each with different price points and applications.

• Split Systems: These are among the most popular and affordable choices for smaller commercial spaces, such as single offices or retail units. A split system consists of an indoor unit and an outdoor condenser unit, connected by refrigerant pipes. The installation for a single split system can range from £1,800 to £4,500+, depending on the size and brand.

  
  

• Multi-Split Systems: If you need to cool multiple rooms or areas, a multi-split system is an efficient choice. It uses a single outdoor unit to power several indoor units, each with its own controls. This can be more cost-effective than installing multiple single split systems. You can expect costs to start from around £2,500 and go up to £7,000 or more, depending on the number of indoor units and the complexity of the installation.

  
  

• Ducted Systems: For a more discreet and comprehensive solution, ducted systems are ideal. They use a network of ducts to distribute cool air from a central unit to various rooms, with only unobtrusive vents visible. These are more complex to install, especially in existing buildings, and are typically the most expensive option. Costs for a ducted system can range from £5,000 to £15,000+ for larger spaces.

• VRF/VRV Systems: For large commercial buildings, hotels, or offices with multiple zones, a Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) or Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) system is the most advanced and flexible choice. These systems allow for the simultaneous heating and cooling of different areas and are incredibly energy-efficient. Their complexity and scale mean they represent a significant investment, with costs varying widely based on the project's size and specifications.

The Size of Your Space

The larger the area you need to cool, the more powerful the system required, and the higher the cost. A small office of up to 500 square feet might cost between £2,000 and £5,000, while a medium-sized space (500-2,000 square feet) could be between £5,000 and £15,000. For premises over 2,000 square feet, the price will almost certainly exceed £15,000.

Installation Complexity

Several factors can increase the labour costs of your installation.

• Accessibility: Is the outdoor unit easily accessible, or does it require scaffolding or specialist lifting equipment?

• Pipework Length: The longer the distance between the indoor and outdoor units, the more materials and labour are needed.

  
  

• Building Structure: Drilling through different wall materials, such as thick brick or concrete, takes more time and effort.

  
  

• New Build vs. Retrofit: Installing a system in a new build is often more straightforward and can be planned into the construction phase. Retrofitting a system into an existing building can be more challenging and time-consuming.

  
  

Ongoing and Running Costs

The initial installation is only part of the story. To get a true picture of the total cost of ownership, you must consider the ongoing expenses.

Energy Consumption

The running costs of your air conditioning are directly linked to your business’s electricity tariff and the energy efficiency of the unit. A higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) or Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating indicates a more efficient system, which will use less electricity and save you money in the long run. We always recommend investing in an A+++ rated system where possible. While they may cost more upfront, the savings on your energy bills can be substantial over the lifespan of the unit. For example, a modern, efficient system could cost as little as 20p per hour to run, while an older, less efficient unit could cost well over £1 per hour.

Maintenance and Servicing

Just like a car, a commercial air conditioning system needs regular servicing to maintain peak performance and efficiency. We recommend at least one service per year for most systems, and more for heavily used units.

• Annual Servicing: A professional service typically costs between £200 (ex VAT) and £500, depending on the system's size and type. This is a vital investment that can help prevent costly breakdowns, ensure legal compliance with F-Gas regulations, and keep your warranty valid.

  
  

• Repairs: Unexpected repairs can be expensive. While regular servicing can prevent most issues, minor repairs like replacing filters or fixing small leaks might cost between £100 and £500. Major repairs, such as replacing a compressor, can run into thousands of pounds.

  
  

Our Expert Advice

At A.S Cooling Ltd, we believe in providing a transparent and tailored service. We understand that every business is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't work. The best way to get an accurate cost for your commercial air conditioning is to get in touch with us for a free, no-obligation site survey and quote.

During our survey, we'll assess your specific requirements, taking into account:

• The size and layout of your premises.

• Your business's specific cooling and heating needs.

• The number of people and equipment in the space.

• The insulation and ventilation of the building.

This detailed assessment allows us to recommend the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your business. We'll provide you with a clear and detailed quote that covers all aspects of the installation, so you know exactly what you're paying for.

Investing in commercial air conditioning is a significant decision, but it's one that can lead to a more comfortable, productive, and energy-efficient workplace. Get in touch with A.S Cooling Ltd today, and let us help you find the perfect solution for your business.