Homebuyers in the United Kingdom are increasingly taking air conditioning into account when searching for properties, as rising temperatures and heatwaves become more common. According to a recent survey, 61% of people said they would consider installing cooling systems in their homes if needed. However, only 12% of respondents had already made such an installation.
The UK’s Climate Change Committee released a report in May that said hotter weather could cause 92% of current homes to overheat by the year 2050, according to The Guardian. That report also suggested these homes may require air conditioning systems to stay comfortable during summer months.
Currently, around 4 million homes in the UK have air conditioning units installed. That number is double what it was just three years ago, showing a sharp increase in demand.
Debonair Cooling, an air conditioning specialist, reported that both older and newer properties are getting inquiries about cooling solutions. These systems typically cost around £2,500 per room to install.
The growing interest in air conditioning has raised concerns about its environmental impact. Air conditioning is known to be energy-intensive and accounts for roughly 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Despite this, the need for cooling in homes has become a major factor in property decisions. James Waight, who leads sales at estate agent John D Wood & Co, said that a home’s ability to stay cool during summer while keeping warm in winter is no longer just a bonus. He added that this feature has now become essential for many buyers when choosing where to live.
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