Ducted air conditioning across Berkshire
Ducted systems suit Reading loft conversions and new extensions where ceilings are being boarded anyway. In an older house in Reading, the loft and any existing bulkheads decide whether a ducted layout will work. The South East sees some of the UK's warmest summer days, and south-facing rooms and conservatories feel it first.
Prices in Berkshire
Our South East England guide price for ducted air conditioning is £6,645–£18,245 per system, VAT included. South East England is one of the dearer parts of the UK for trades, which shows in the range. What moves a quote in Berkshire up or down is mostly pipe length, how high the outdoor unit goes, and whether a new electrical circuit is needed. Typical Zoned work (motorised dampers or two units for separate floors or room groups) lands around £9,095–£13,345 in this area.
Single zone
One ducted unit serving two or three rooms from a loft or void.
Zoned
Motorised dampers or two units for separate floors or room groups.
Whole home
Multiple ducted units with linear slot diffusers and smart control.
Guide prices show VAT at 20%. HMRC treats most fixed air conditioners and air-to-air heat pumps installed in homes as energy-saving materials, zero-rated until 31 March 2027 when we supply and fit them. If your installation qualifies, your quote shows 0% VAT and a lower price. Servicing, repairs, cleaning and controls are charged at 20%.
Planning and permissions
Since 29 May 2025, England's permitted development rules allow larger outdoor units (up to 1.5 m³) and no longer require a 1 m gap to the boundary, provided the MCS 020(a) noise check is met. Listed buildings and pitched-roof installs still need permission.
The survey
On a survey in Berkshire the engineer looks at room size, glazing, the route for pipes and drains, the electrics and where the outdoor unit can sit quietly, then the written quote follows. A survey in Berkshire usually takes one to two hours. We measure the rooms, check the walls and the consumer unit, agree the outdoor unit position with you and photograph the pipe routes.
What is included
Included with ducted air conditioning across Berkshire:
- Commissioning with airflow balancing per grille
- Wall controller or app control
- Free survey with ceiling-void and loft inspection
- Access hatch and condensate route planned in
- Concealed fan unit and outdoor unit sized to the zone
- Insulated ductwork, plenums and grilles
Towns in Berkshire
Pick your town for local details, or see every service in Berkshire.