First, don’t panic. Most councils only crack down on units installed without permission. If you bought a portable indoor unit (the ones with a hose out the window), you’re probably safe. Those are like the rebellious teenagers of cooling—no one can stop them.
If you want a fixed split-unit, check with your council first. It might sound boring, but it beats a letter demanding removal. Some councils, like Brighton and Hove, have specific policies that limit units to back walls or garden sheds. Yes, you can be cool in your shed. Very chic.
Another hack? Consider a mini-split unit that’s discreet. Or better yet, become a disgruntled garden gnome and sit in a paddling pool. Kidding—but not entirely. The point is, there are workarounds.
The real villain might be red tape
The problem isn’t the council’s desire to protect heritage. It’s the clunky, slow planning system. You apply for permission, wait months, and by then, winter has returned. So people install units anyway, hoping no one notices. Spoiler: the council always notices.
And then there’s the cost. Removing and reinstalling a unit can cost thousands. That’s money you could’ve spent on ice cream, or a holiday to a country that understands air conditioning. It’s enough to make you consider emigrating to a fridge aisle in Tesco.
Councils order homeowners to remove air con as temperatures hit 40C
But here’s the thing: the climate is changing. Summers are getting hotter, and councils need to adapt, not just ban. In fact, some councils are now reviewing their rules. Change is coming, even if it’s arriving at the speed of a snail in a heatwave.
