Wall-mounted air conditioning units are a popular type of split system air conditioner where the indoor unit is mounted on a wall inside the room to be cooled or heated. These units provide an efficient and versatile solution for climate control in both residential and commercial settings. On this blog we will talk about the best wall mounted air conditioning units available in the UK.
Table of Contents
What Is Wall Mounted Air Conditioning?
Wall-mounted air conditioning units are a type of split system air conditioner where the indoor unit is mounted on a wall inside the room to be cooled or heated. Wall mounted air conditioners consist of:
- Indoor Unit: Mounted on the wall inside the room. It contains the evaporator coil, air filter, and blower fan.
- Outdoor Unit: Placed outside the building. It houses the compressor, condenser coil, and expansion valve.
Types of Wall Mounted Air Conditioners
Wall-mounted air conditioners come in several types, each designed to meet specific cooling and heating needs. Here are the main types:
1- Single-Split System
A Single-Split System consists of one indoor unit connected to one outdoor unit. It is ideal for cooling or heating a single room.
Advantages:
- Simple installation
- Efficient
- Cost-effective
Disadvantages:
- Limited to one room
- multiple units needed for multiple rooms
2- Multi-Split System
A Multi-Split System connects multiple indoor units (up to five or more) to a single outdoor unit. These systems are suitable for cooling or heating multiple rooms with individual control for each unit.
Advantages
- Space-saving
- aesthetically pleasing outdoor setup
- flexible temperature control
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial cost
- more complex installation
- potential for decreased efficiency if all indoor units are used simultaneously
3- Heat Pump Air Conditioners
Heat Pump Air Conditioners are capable of both cooling and heating by reversing the refrigerant flow.
Advantages:
- Energy-efficient for both heating and cooling
- eliminates the need for separate heating systems
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial cost
- potential reduced heating efficiency in extremely cold climates
- Ductless Mini-Split Systems
A type of split system that doesn’t require ductwork, with the indoor unit mounted on the wall. They are suitable for homes without existing ductwork or for retrofitting older buildings.
Advantages:
- Easy installation
- no ductwork needed
- zoned heating and cooling
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial cost compared to window units
- potential aesthetic impact of wall-mounted units
Read more: Air conditioning installation Services
Benefits of Wall Mounted Air Conditioners
Wall-mounted air conditioners offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications.
- Energy Efficiency
Many models have high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, indicating efficient energy use. With the use of inverter technology many models can adjust compressor speed to match cooling demand, reducing energy consumption and saving on electricity bills.
- Cost-Effective
Due to their energy efficiency, they can be more cost-effective to run than central air systems. With the use of Zone Control you can only cool or heat specific rooms as needed, reducing unnecessary energy use in unoccupied areas.
- Ease of Installation
No ductwork is required. That is why they are ideal for homes or buildings without existing ductwork, reducing installation complexity and cost. Professional installation is straightforward and less disruptive compared to central air systems.
- Space-Saving
Wall-mounted units are slim and take up minimal space, making them suitable for small rooms or apartments. They are mounted on walls, leaving floor space free for furniture and other uses.
- Quiet Operation
Designed to operate quietly, making them suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, and offices where noise can be disruptive.
- Improved Air Quality
Many units come with filters that trap dust, pollen, and other allergens, improving indoor air quality. They can also reduce humidity levels, creating a more comfortable indoor environment.
- Flexibility and Control
Most units come with remote controls, allowing easy adjustment of settings. By using programmable timers you can set specific times for the unit to turn on or off, enhancing convenience and energy savings. Some models offer Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control via smartphones or integration with smart home systems.
- Versatility
Many models offer both cooling and heating functions, providing year-round climate control. They are also available in various sizes and capacities to suit different room sizes and cooling/heating needs.
- Aesthetic Appeal
Wall mounted units are available in various styles and finishes that blend seamlessly with interior decor. They can be installed in less conspicuous locations, maintaining the room’s aesthetics.
- Eco-Friendly Options
Many models meet Energy Star guidelines for energy efficiency, contributing to reduced carbon footprints. They also use environmentally friendly refrigerants like R-410A, which have lower environmental impact compared to older refrigerants.
Read about: Best Split Air Conditioning
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wall-Mounted Air Conditioning Unit
Cooling Capacity
Measure the size of the room and select a unit with the appropriate British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating to effectively cool or heat the space. Manufacturers usually provide a recommended coverage area for each unit, so match this to your room size.
Energy Efficiency (SEER Rating)
Look for units with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating for better energy efficiency. Consider units with Energy Star certification for proven energy savings.
Installation Considerations
Ensure that professional installation is available and consider the cost and complexity of installation. Determine the best location for the indoor unit to ensure optimal air distribution and aesthetics.
Price Range and Upfront Costs
Compare the prices of different models within your budget. Keep in mind the long-term operating costs, including energy consumption and maintenance.
Controls and Usability
Consider if you need a unit that provides both cooling and heating functions (heat pump models). You can also look for units with remote controls for convenience. Models with Wi-Fi connectivity for remote operation via smartphone apps and integration with smart home systems are quite useful as well. And to enhance comfort and energy savings make sure to get a unit with features like programmable timers and sleep modes.
Noise and Disturbance
Check the noise levels (measured in decibels) of both the indoor and outdoor units, especially if the unit will be installed in a bedroom or quiet workspace.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Check how easy it is to access and clean the filters and other components. Another thing you can do is to check the length and coverage of the warranty provided by the manufacturer.
How much does a wall mounted AC unit cost in UK
The cost of a wall-mounted air conditioning unit in the UK can vary widely based on several factors, including the brand, model, cooling capacity, features, and installation costs.
| Unit type | Possible cost |
| Entry-Level Models | £300 – £600 |
| Mid-Range Models | £600 – £1,200 |
| High-End Models | £1,200 – £2,500+ |
Top Air Conditioner Brands in the UK
In the UK, several air conditioner brands are well-regarded for their quality, efficiency, and reliability.
1- Daikin
Daikin AC units are known for their innovative technology and energy-efficient products.
Key Features:
- Advanced inverter technology
- quiet operation
- excellent air filtration systems
Popular Models
- Daikin Emura
- Daikin Stylish
- Daikin Perfera
- Mitsubishi Electric
Mitsubishi AC units are renowned for their reliability, energy efficiency, and advanced features.
Key Features
- Econo Cool function
- high SEER ratings
- Wi-Fi control options
Popular Models:
- Mitsubishi MSZ-LN series
- Mitsubishi MSZ-AP series
2- LG
LG Offers a range of stylish and efficient air conditioning units.
Key Features:
- Dual Inverter technology
- smart home integration
- sleek designs
Popular Models:
- LG Artcool
- LG DualCool
- LG Libero
- Panasonic
Panasonic AC units are known for their high-quality units with a focus on air quality and energy efficiency.
Key Features:
- Nanoe™ air purification technology
- Inverter technology
- Econavi sensors
Popular Models:
- Panasonic Etherea
- Panasonic TZ series
3- Samsung
Samsung offers technologically advanced and aesthetically pleasing units.
Key Features:
- Wind-Free™ cooling
- SmartThings integration
- digital inverter technology
Popular Models:
- Samsung Wind-Free
- Samsung AR9500M
4- Fujitsu
Fujitsu AC units are recognized for their reliable performance and efficient operation.
Key Features:
- High COP (Coefficient of Performance)
- quiet operation
- powerful airflow
Popular Models:
- Fujitsu ASYG series
- Fujitsu KG series
5- Hitachi
Hitachi is known for producing durable and energy-efficient air conditioning units.
Key Features:
- Frost Wash self-cleaning technology
- eco-friendly refrigerants
- inverter compressors
Popular Models:
- Hitachi Shirokuma
- Hitachi RAK series
6- Toshiba
Toshiba offers a range of efficient and reliable air conditioning solutions.
Key Features:
- Hybrid inverter technology
- high SEER ratings
- advanced filtration systems
Popular Models:
- Toshiba Mirai
- Toshiba Seiya
Read about: Ducted air conditioning system
Conclusion
Wall-mounted air conditioning units are an effective and versatile solution for both residential and commercial climate control needs. They offer various types, including single-split, multi-split, heat pump, and ductless mini-split systems, to cater to different cooling and heating requirements.
These units provide numerous benefits, such as high energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and improved air quality. Additionally, they come with advanced features like remote control, smart connectivity, and programmable timers for enhanced convenience and flexibility.
When choosing a wall-mounted air conditioner, it’s important to consider factors like cooling capacity, energy efficiency, installation complexity, noise levels, and maintenance requirements. The cost of these units in the UK can vary widely based on these factors, as well as the brand and model selected.
Read more about:
Office Air Conditioning
Commercial Air Conditioning
FAQs
The top air conditioner companies can be listed as follows:
The top air conditioner companies can be listed as follows:
Daikin
Mitsubishi Electric
LG
Panasonic
Samsung
Fujitsu
Hitachi
Toshiba
Are wall mounted AC units worth it?
Wall-mounted air conditioning units can be a worthwhile investment if their benefits align with your needs. They offer energy efficiency, space-saving design, and advanced features that make them a popular choice for many.
What is the disadvantage of wall mounted air conditioners?
High Initial Cost: Higher upfront purchase and installation costs compared to some other types.
Aesthetic Impact: Visible indoor units may not blend with all interior decor.
Limited Coverage: Single units typically only cool or heat one room; multiple units needed for multiple rooms.
Maintenance Needs: Requires regular cleaning and servicing to maintain efficiency.
Installation Complexity: Professional installation required, involving wall drilling and pipe running.
Potential Noise: Some models can produce noticeable noise, especially from the outdoor unit.
Variable Energy Efficiency: Efficiency can vary, and extreme weather may impact performance.
Aesthetic Considerations: Indoor unit placement might affect room layout and design.
Reduced Heating Efficiency: Heat pump models may have lower efficiency in extremely cold climates.
Increased Energy Use: Poorly sized or inefficient use can lead to higher energy bills.
