Air conditioning that heats and cools

Most modern air conditioning does both jobs: it cools in summer and heats in winter. The same unit simply runs in reverse — which is why these systems are air-to-air heat pumps.

One system, all year

• Summer — the system removes heat from the room to cool it.
• Winter — it draws warmth from outside air and delivers it indoors.

Because it moves heat rather than burning fuel, in heating mode it can deliver several units of warmth per unit of electricity, which can make it an efficient way to heat a room — see running costs.

Is it right for you?

If you want cooling anyway, choosing a reversible system adds winter heating at little extra cost and is worth considering for bedrooms, home offices and loft conversions. Eligible installations may also attract grant support — see air-to-air heat pumps.

Request an installer match to get a system matched to your home.