In a recent LinkedIn post, Nick Curum explores the surge in demand for air conditioning units across the UK and Europe, driven by recent heatwaves. Curum highlights that for many UK homeowners, this is a first-time capital decision made under significant time pressure as stock levels dwindle, a situation he describes as “the worst condition available.” He frames the adoption of air conditioning not as a question of ‘whether,’ but ‘when,’ drawing a parallel to the increasing prevalence of heat pumps.
The Importance of Informed Decision-Making
Curum emphasizes the critical need for thorough research before making a purchase, especially given the current market conditions. He shares ten key facts he uncovered, aiming to guide consumers through the complexities of air conditioning selection and installation. One of his primary points is the focus on electrical input power rather than the commonly advertised BTU rating.
“The number that matters is electrical input in kilowatts, not the BTU rating on the box.”
As Curum explains, understanding the electrical input is crucial for calculating running costs. He provides a clear formula: “Hourly cost = input kW × your electricity rate.” Using an example of 26.11p/kWh, he illustrates that a 1.0 kW portable unit could cost approximately 26p per hour at full power, while a more efficient 0.65 kW split system would cost around 17p per hour. This distinction, he argues, is vital for long-term cost-effectiveness.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
Curum’s post also addresses several common misconceptions and pitfalls associated with air conditioning units, particularly portable models. He cautions against the assumption that larger BTU ratings are always better, noting that oversizing can lead to increased cycling, noise, and ultimately, higher costs.
Portable Unit Limitations
A significant point of caution for portable units is their exhaust mechanism. Curum highlights a critical design flaw: “A portable unit with an unsealed window gap pulls its own hot exhaust straight back into the room.” He also warns that units advertised as “no hose required” often fail to effectively remove heat from the space at all. These insights are crucial for consumers considering the most convenient and effective solutions.
“Bigger BTU is not better. Oversizing increases cycling, noise and cost.”
Installation and Regulatory Considerations
Beyond the unit itself, Curum delves into installation and regulatory aspects. He debunks the notion that a single unit can cool an entire house, stating, “Cool air does not travel through closed doors. One unit for the whole house is marketing, not engineering.” This underscores the need for realistic expectations and potentially multiple units for larger spaces.
Furthermore, Curum clarifies that air conditioning is not banned in the UK and that many small domestic installations do not require planning permission. However, he strongly advises checking with local councils and, for renters or leaseholders, obtaining written consent before any drilling or installation work commences. He also stresses the legal requirement for an F-gas qualification for anyone working on a refrigerant circuit, indicating that even “pre-charged” units do not permit DIY installation without the proper certification.
“Anyone working on a refrigerant circuit needs an F-gas qualification. ‘Pre-charged’ does not mean DIY-legal.”
Curum concludes his post by advocating for a strategic purchasing approach: “Buy when you know which room fails, at what hour, and what it costs to run. Not when the stock runs out.” He offers a comprehensive guide, including decision trees and installer quote scorecards, to aid consumers in making informed choices during this period of high demand.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Nick Curum on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on July 13, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →