Less than 5% of homes in the UK have air conditioning but the extreme summer temperature experienced this year together are fuelling an increased demand for mechanical cooling in homes and workplaces.
Feeling hot, hot, hot
In July 2022, temperatures exceeded 40°C in several places across the country, setting a new record for the UK. These unprecedented temperatures caused havoc to healthcare settings and economic productivity because our homes and buildings are simply not designed to perform at such high temperatures.
Extreme heat can cause a range of medical emergencies and ill-health, especially in vulnerable groups such as the very young and the elderly. In the workplace, uncomfortable temperatures will result in reduced productivity and avoidable absences.
Do I need air conditioning for my home?
The unfortunate trend for global warming, plus an aging population living in unsuitable housing stock, means that the UK is at an increased risk of overheating if sufficient measures are not taken.
The latest air conditioning solutions combine efficient technology with discreet design to keep families and workers cool comfortable and healthy. Voice activation and smartphone enabled solutions provide complete temperature control and keep running costs to a minimum.
During the summer 2022 heatwave, hotels with air conditioning saw a surge in bookings as homeowners sought refuge from the sweltering heat. But it’s not just people, pets also benefit from air conditioning in hot weather – the only difference is they can’t book a hotel room!
Do employers have to provide air conditioning in the workplace?
Employers have a duty of care to keep their employees safe. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) does not specify a maximum temperature people can work in; however, it does stipulate that temperatures in workspaces must be ‘reasonable’.
Employers should take steps to ensure the comfort of their workforce. Things like portable fans and relaxed dress codes can help but office air conditioning will ensure that comfort and productivity are maintained 365 days a year.
Apart from controlling the temperature, air conditioners remove pollution and improve indoor air quality (IAQ). Filters in air conditions remove a range of irritants, including dust, smells and dust mites, reducing the risk of illnesses such as ‘Sick Building Syndrome’.
Mechanical ventilation in the workplace also reduces the risk of downtime, keeping equipment, such as server rooms and machinery, cool and operational.
How much does air conditioning cost?
For a typical sized living room of bedroom, an entry level wall mounted air conditioning unit starts at just over £1,000. Slim-line units can be installed above a door frame and are virtually soundless.
The latest air conditioning units are up to 350% efficient with intelligent thermal sensors, smart app controls and voice activation that further support energy efficient operation.
Prepare to be cool in summer 2023 and beyond
Don’t wait until a heatwave is on the horizon! As we’ve seen in recent years, panic buying at short notice creates supply issues and people are unable to get what they need.
Enquire about air conditioning today to ensure you are ready to face whatever future summers may bring.
We provide a full design, specification and installation service and can also maintain, service and repair existing air conditioning units. Our expert team can answer all your air conditioning questions and advise on suitable solutions for your home or workplace.
We can talk to you over the phone or arrange a meeting at your home or at our state-of-the-art Daikin Sustainable Home Centre based in Halifax, where you can see the latest air conditioning units and heat pumps from leading supplier, Daikin.
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