Costs of installing an AC
Costs of air conditioning installation 2026
The installation of air conditioning costs on average between €500 and €3,900, depending on the type of system and the number of units. An air conditioning installation consists of a split system with an indoor unit and an outdoor unit that both cools and heats. The price is influenced by factors such as power, energy efficiency, and the complexity of the installation. In this price guide, you can read exactly what the costs for installing air conditioning entail and what you should look out for when making your choice.
What does it cost to have air conditioning installed?
The costs for installing air conditioning average between €500 for a single split unit and €3,900 for a multi-split system with several units. The total price consists of both the device itself and the installation costs, and is calculated per project based on the type of air conditioning, the number of indoor units, and the specific requirements of the installation.
Costs per air conditioning type
Air conditioning type | Average price air conditioning | Average installation costs |
|---|---|---|
Split air conditioning (1 unit) | €1,000-€2,200 | €600-€1,050 |
Multi-split air conditioning (2+ units) | €1,800-€3,900 | €1,200-€1,650 |
Monoblock air conditioning | €900-€1,500 | €400-€650 |
Mobile air conditioning | €300-€650 | Not applicable |
The table shows that a split air conditioning system with one indoor unit is the most common. With a multi-split system, you pay more for the device and the installation because several indoor units are connected to one outdoor unit. A monoblock air conditioning system has lower installation costs because no separate outdoor and indoor units need to be connected.
Breakdown of costs
Cost item | Amount |
|---|---|
Basic installation rate (1 unit split air conditioning) | From €500 |
Extra indoor units (split & multi-split) | From €500 per unit |
Extra indoor units (VRF/VRV) | From €700 per unit |
Outdoor unit installation on first floor | +€50 |
Outdoor unit installation on second floor | +€150 |
Pulling new power cable | +€150 |
This table provides insight into the specific cost items when installing air conditioning. The basic rate includes the mounting of the indoor and outdoor units, a standard length of refrigerant pipes, a wall penetration, mounting materials, the electrical connection, and the commissioning of the system. Additional costs apply if the outdoor unit needs to be mounted higher than the ground floor or if a new power cable needs to be pulled. All prices mentioned include 21% VAT and labour.
Costs of air conditioning installation by type and configuration
The costs for installing air conditioning depend on the type of system, the number of indoor units, and the location of the outdoor unit. Whether or not a new power cable needs to be pulled also plays a role in the total price. A split unit on the ground floor without a cable is the cheapest scenario, while a VRF/VRV system (Variable Refrigerant Flow) with two units on the second floor costs the most.
Type | Units | Location | Cable | Total price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Split unit | 1 | Ground floor | No | €500 |
Split unit | 2 | Second floor | Yes | €1,450 |
Multi-split | 1 | First floor | No | €1,100 |
Multi-split | 2 | Ground floor | Yes | €1,250 |
VRF/VRV | 1 | Second floor | Yes | €1,700 |
VRF/VRV | 2 | First floor | Yes | €1,750 |
Price-determining factors for installing air conditioning
The costs for installing air conditioning vary per situation. The total price depends on workable factors such as planning and accessibility, but also on technical aspects such as the type of system and the complexity of the installation.
Type of air conditioning and number of indoor units
A split system with one indoor unit requires less work than a multi-split with several units. With a multi-split, all indoor units must be connected to one outdoor unit, which takes more time for pulling pipes and connecting units. A VRF/VRV system is technically more complex and requires specialist knowledge, which increases the costs.
Location of the outdoor unit
Installation on the ground floor is the quickest to perform. Placement on a higher floor requires extra preparations such as scaffolding or ladders, safety measures, and more lifting work. This extends the labour time and increases the price.
Distance between indoor and outdoor unit
The longer the distance, the more refrigerant piping is needed. Longer pipes mean more material costs, extra penetrations through walls or floors, and more time for mounting and securing the pipes along the facade or through the building.
Indoor unit placement options
Wall mounting is the standard solution and requires little preparation. Ceiling mounting or built-in solutions require extra construction work, adjustments to the ceiling, and more careful finishing. This requires more time and craftsmanship.
Room size and required cooling capacity
A larger room requires a more powerful air conditioner with more cooling capacity. The required power depends on the surface area, insulation quality, location (south side, top floor), and glass surface. Insufficient power means the system runs constantly without providing enough cooling; too much power leads to waste and higher purchase costs.
Energy efficiency
The SEER value (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, energy efficiency for cooling) and SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance, energy efficiency for heating) determine how economically the air conditioning works. Devices with higher labels such as A++ or A+++ have higher purchase costs but consume less electricity. This affects the investment, not the labour time.
Brand and version
A-brands such as LG and Daikin are more expensive than budget alternatives. These brands offer better warranties, longer life spans, and higher energy efficiency. The price of the device itself forms a large part of the total costs.
Extra functions
Options such as app control, eco mode, ioniser, moisture control, and presence detection increase the purchase price of the air conditioning. These functions do not influence the installation time, but they do affect the total price.
New power cable
If no suitable power cable is present, it must be pulled from the fuse box. This requires extra cables, conduits, penetrations, and connection work. The distance and accessibility determine how much time this takes.
Urgently versus scheduled work
A rush job costs more because the professional must adjust their planning to be available quickly. Scheduled work can be planned more efficiently, which reduces costs.
Weekends and evening hours
Work outside regular working hours is accompanied by surcharges. Work at the weekend or in the evening increases the average costs.
Accessibility and preparation
A well-accessible workplace saves time. If the installer has difficulty reaching the assembly location, it costs more time to move material and tools. Ensure the area is clear and parking is possible.
Region
In large cities, the rates are often higher than in rural areas due to higher costs for parking, accessibility, and local market prices.
Additional costs and surcharges for air conditioning installation
Extra costs when installing air conditioning are situation-dependent. You do not pay call-out charges, but you do pay surcharges for specific circumstances.
Emergency surcharge: A surcharge applies to rush jobs because the professional must adjust their planning to be available quickly.
Weekend surcharge: Work at the weekend is more expensive than during the week due to the labour surcharge.
Installation at height: Placing the outdoor unit on the first floor costs €50 extra, on the second floor €150.
New power cable: When no suitable connection is present, pulling a cable costs €150.
Concrete drilling: With concrete walls, extra drilling work may be needed for the penetration.
Condensate pump: Necessary when condensation water cannot be drained via gravity.
Longer refrigerant pipes: Pipes longer than the standard length (usually 3-5 metres) incur additional costs.
Permit costs: In protected cityscapes, for monuments, or under VvE rules, a permit may be required. Enquire with your municipality in advance.
How does the professional work when installing air conditioning?
The installation of air conditioning follows a fixed procedure where several steps are performed with precision.
Location Determination: The professional determines where the indoor and outdoor units can best be placed, taking into account the pipe distance, accessibility, and optimal air distribution in the room.
Unit Installation: Both units are secured. A penetration is made through the wall for the refrigerant pipes, condensate drain, and electrical cables. The indoor unit is mounted on the wall, on the ceiling, or built-in.
Connecting Pipes: The refrigerant pipes are connected and soldered. The system is vacuumed to remove moisture and air, which is essential for the operation of the refrigerant.
Pressure Test and Filling: After a pressure test, the system is filled with refrigerant. The electrical connection is made and checked. This work requires F-gas certification (fluorinated greenhouse gases), which every qualified installer possesses.
Commissioning: The professional tests all functions and explains the operation. A standard single-split installation takes an average of 4 to 6 hours.
Ensure the installation location is clear and accessible so that costs do not rise unnecessarily due to delay.
How can you save on installing air conditioning?
There are several ways to reduce the costs of installing air conditioning without compromising on quality.
Choose the right time: Have your air conditioning installed in autumn, winter, or early spring. Outside the peak season, there is better availability and often lower rates than in the summer months.
Optimal placement: Choose a central location and keep the distance between indoor and outdoor units short. This limits piping costs and reduces installation time.
Good preparation: Clear the workplace and make it accessible. This saves the installer time and helps keep average costs down.
Do not book in the weekend or as an emergency: Rates are lower during the week than at weekends or for urgent work due to surcharges.
Combine with solar panels: On hot days, solar panels produce enough electricity to power the air conditioning, making cooling almost free.
Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, without call-out charges and without surprises. You only pay after completion of the job.
Find the best professional for installing air conditioning
A professional installation determines the operation, efficiency, and lifespan of your air conditioning.
F-gas certification: Always check if the installer is F-gas certified. This is mandatory for working with refrigerant and guarantees professional competence.
Tailor-made advice: The professional advises on the right capacity, energy efficiency, and the best solution for your specific situation, so that costs are spent optimally.
No call-out charges: You never pay extra for the professional coming over, only for the work performed.
Fixed price in advance: You know exactly what you pay, no surprises afterwards.
Quick booking without quote hassle: Directly choose a moment that suits you, without endless waiting for quotes.
Payment via QR code after completion: You only pay when the job is done and you are satisfied.
Reliable, verified professionals: All affiliated installers are verified and certified.
Frequently asked questions about air conditioning installation
What does air conditioning in the home cost including installation?
The costs for installing air conditioning start from €500 for a single split unit including installation. For a multi-split system with several units, you pay between €1,250 and €1,750, depending on the number of indoor units and the location of the outdoor unit. Additional costs may apply for installation at height or pulling a new power cable.
What does an air conditioner with an outdoor unit cost installed?
A split air conditioning system with indoor and outdoor units costs from €500 including installation for a single unit on the ground floor. When placing the outdoor unit on the first floor, you pay €50 extra, on the second floor €150 extra. These costs include the mounting of both units, refrigerant pipes, penetration, and electrical connection.
What does 1 hour of air conditioning cost?
The energy costs average between €0.25 and €0.60 per hour, depending on the power and energy efficiency of the air conditioning. A device with a high SEER value consumes less electricity. When used in combination with solar panels, the costs can be significantly lower.
Do I need a building permit for air conditioning?
For most homes, no permit is required. Enquire in advance with your municipality if you live in a protected cityscape, have a monumental building, or are part of a VvE. These organisations may set specific requirements for placement and appearance.
Can an air conditioner also heat?
Yes, modern split air conditioners function as an air-to-air heat pump and can heat very efficiently with efficiencies up to 350%. This means they deliver three times more heat than the energy they consume, which can save on gas costs.
How long does an air conditioner last?
A well-installed air conditioner with regular maintenance lasts 12 to 15 years. The lifespan depends on the quality of the device, the installation quality, and maintenance. A-brands such as LG and Daikin often last longer than budget alternatives.
How often should I have maintenance done?
Annual maintenance is recommended for optimal performance, energy efficiency, and maximum lifespan. This includes cleaning filters, checking refrigerant, and inspecting the indoor and outdoor units.
Can I install a split air conditioner myself?
This is discouraged. F-gas certification is legally required for filling with refrigerant. Self-installation leads to loss of warranty, can be dangerous, and increases costs later due to repair work.
When is the best time to have air conditioning installed?
In autumn, winter, or early spring, there is better availability and potentially lower rates than in the busy summer season. Installers have more time for advice and careful execution outside the peak season.
What is included in the installation costs?
Standard inclusions are: mounting of indoor and outdoor units, standard length refrigerant pipes (3-5 metres), penetration through the wall, mounting materials, electrical connection, and commissioning. Additional costs apply for installation at height or longer pipes.
Book a professional for installing air conditioning
Ready to have air conditioning installed? At Zoofy, you book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You see exactly what it costs beforehand, and you are matched with a reliable professional who has been verified. You only pay once the work is finished. Book a professional directly now.