Are you considering adding air conditioning to your home? Here are our top picks of the best best small air conditioning units in 2022. Like most heating and cooling systems, air conditioning can be a really valuable part of your property. But that doesn’t mean you want to put your air conditioners on display. This has made subtle, small air conditioning units seriously in demand in the UK – for homes and businesses.
You might also be after compact units because you have limited space in your property. Luckily, this is a common issue, and air conditioning manufacturers have made major efforts to make their products as space-efficient as possible.
Here’s how to get small air conditioning units for your property, and 5 great options to consider.
Pick a compact air conditioning system for your property
The type of air conditioning system you choose has a big impact on how much space it’ll take up. So, it’s important to get started by picking the right one for you.
Central air conditioning is popular for large commercial properties and homes still in the design stages, but they take up a lot of space.
Split and multi split air conditioning systems, on the other hand, don’t need ducting, making them much more compact and easier to retrofit. That’s why all the units we’ve featured in this article are for split or multi split air conditioning systems.
To find out more, read our handy article about the difference between central and split air conditioning systems.
5 small air conditioning units in 2024 you should consider
There are plenty of great small air conditioning units around that suit different property types and sizes. Some are designed to be mounted on walls and floors, while others recess into walls and ceilings.
Here are 5 compact air conditioners that could suit your home or business.
1. Wall mounted air conditioning unit: Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-LN
Wall mounted units are one of the most popular types of air conditioner. Great for heating and cooling bedrooms, living rooms, small commercial offices and server rooms, there are lots of different designs and colours to choose from.
If you’re considering investing in a wall mounted air conditioning unit, make sure you take a look at Mitsubishi Electric’s MSZ-LN range. Also known as their ‘Diamond’ design, it has a combination of features that make it a great choice if you’re after a subtle, small air conditioning unit.
Key features
- Range of subtle and striking colours available
- Very quiet: 19 – 49 dBA sound pressure level
- Super small size: H307 x W890 x D233mm
The MSZ-LN range is available in 4 colours – ruby red, natural white, pearl white and onyx black. This diverse pallet gives you the chance to pick a shade that blends in seamlessly with your property – although you could go for a bold contrast if you prefer. It also has very low sound pressure levels and is really compact, making it easy to use unobtrusively.
Mitsubishi Electric’s unit also comes with a range of innovative features to help you create the ideal environment in your home or business. With independently operating double flaps and 3D i-see sensor, it can customise air flow and temperature to suit a room’s inhabitants, improving comfort and saving energy. It also features a Plasma Quad Plus filter to provide clean and healthy air – find out more here.
2. Ceiling cassette air conditioning unit: Daikin FFA-A
Ceiling cassette units are a really popular type of air conditioner. Typically fitted in offices and other commercial spaces, they recess neatly into false and suspended ceilings.
If you want to get your hands on a compact ceiling cassette air conditioning unit, make sure you consider Daikin’s FFA-A.
Key features
- Subtle fully flat integration into ceiling
- Very quiet: 25-43 dBA sound pressure level
- Super small size: H260 x W575 x D575mm
The Daikin FFA-A is one of the sleekest units of its kind. With only 8mm visible depth, it takes up very little interior space, earning its place on our list of top small air conditioning units. Visually unobtrusive and very quiet, it makes a great choice if you’re after something subtle.
Like all ceiling cassette units, you’ll need space above your ceiling to fit the FFA-A. If this isn’t possible, see our air conditioning air conditioning unit types to find out more about your other options, or take a look at our next featured unit.
3. Underslung ceiling air conditioning unit: Midea MUE
If a ceiling cassette isn’t an option for your property, an underslung ceiling air conditioning unit is a great alternative. Ideal for commercial offices, shops and server rooms, they’re some of the most powerful units on the market.
The Midea MUE range is a simple, neat underslung ceiling unit – another great option if you’re after a small air conditioning unit.
Key features
- For installation under ceiling or on the floor
- Quiet: 34-54 dBA sound pressure level
- Small size: from H235 x W1068 x D675mm
Another quiet, compact unit, the MUE sits directly under your ceiling at the top your wall and unobtrusively heats and cools your property. Its louver position memory and timer make it easy to set up your air conditioning the way you want it, and it has a turbo mode for speedy results.
An added benefit to the Midea MUE is that, like many ceiling suspended units, it can also be fitted as a floor mounted unit. This is great if you want to coordinate multiple unit types in your property.
4. Floor mounted air conditioner: Daikin FVA-A
Do you have limited wall space in your property? Then you might need a floor mounted air conditioner. Useful for cooling areas like conservatories and shops, they provide efficient heating and cooling without encroaching on shelving or window space.
Another great unit from Daikin, the FVA-A range has a unique design that’s both practical and compact. Designed primarily for commercial spaces with high ceilings, it can also be used in homes and doesn’t compromise on power.
Key features
- Tall, slim design takes up minimal floor space
- Quiet: 38-53 dBA sound pressure level
- Small size: from H1850 x W600 x D270mm
While most floor mounted air conditioners are wide and low, the FVA-A has a tall, slim design, making it a great choice if both floor and wall space are in short supply. Overall, this design makes it takes up considerably more space than the other units featured in this guide. But, as this is mainly due to height, Daikin’s model is still an ideal option for many people looking for a small air conditioning unit.
The Daikin FVA-A can be seriously quiet, with low sound pressure levels facilitated by variable heating, cooling and fan speed options. It also has excellent air distribution and high energy efficiency levels to boot – you can find out more here.
5. Ducted air conditioning unit: Hitachi RAD-PPD
Are you after a small air conditioning unit that’s quiet and barely visible? Then a ducted air conditioner could be for you. These units sit behind your walls, blowing air into your room with only the front grill visible.
The Hitachi RAD-PPD range was released as part of the manufacturer’s 2018 light commercial line. This means the unit is great for small commercial spaces like offices and shops – although it could also work well in a home too.
Key features
- Low grill height for subtle but effective climate control
- Very quiet: 29-39 dBA sound pressure level
- Small size: H270 x W900 x 720mm
The main distinctive feature of the RAD-PPD is its low 270mm grill height. This means that the unit is barely visible, giving you all the benefits of a subtle, small air conditioning unit. Of course, like all ducted units, you can only install it if you have sufficient space behind your walls to fit the unit.
What’s the best small air conditioning unit for you?
These are just 5 units – there are plenty of other quality small air conditioning units to choose from. These include units from other quality manufacturers like Toshiba, Fujitsu and Panasonic – take a look at our manufacturers page for the full list.
Here’s a table comparing the key features of the five small air conditioning units mentioned in the article:
| Model | Type | Key Features | Noise Level (dBA) | Dimensions (H x W x D mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-LN | Wall Mounted | Available in 4 colours, double flaps, 3D i-see sensor, Plasma Quad Plus filter | 19 – 49 | 307 x 890 x 233 |
| Daikin FFA-A | Ceiling Cassette | Fully flat integration, very quiet | 25 – 43 | 260 x 575 x 575 |
| Midea MUE | Underslung Ceiling | Can be installed under ceiling or floor, turbo mode, louver position memory | 34 – 54 | 235 x 1068 x 675 |
| Daikin FVA-A | Floor Mounted | Tall, slim design, variable heating and cooling speeds | 38 – 53 | 1850 x 600 x 270 |
| Hitachi RAD-PPD | Ducted | Low grill height, subtle climate control | 29 – 39 | 270 x 900 x 720 |
This table provides a concise overview of each unit, including their type, key features, noise level, and dimensions, to help you compare and choose the most suitable air conditioning unit for your needs.
FAQs about 5 Top Small Air Conditioning Units in 2024
Yes, many modern small air conditioning units are designed with eco-friendliness in mind. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on reducing the environmental impact of their products by using refrigerants that have a lower global warming potential (GWP) and improving the energy efficiency of their units. When shopping for an eco-friendly air conditioning unit, look for features such as inverter technology, which significantly reduces energy consumption by adjusting the power used to suit the actual requirement.Additionally, many units now come with programmable timers and smart controls that contribute to energy efficiency. These features allow you to schedule the operation of your air conditioning to match your lifestyle, ensuring it runs only when necessary. Choosing a unit with a high energy efficiency rating (A++ or higher) not only helps reduce your carbon footprint but can also lead to significant savings on energy bills. It’s also worth considering units that are compatible with renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to further enhance environmental sustainability
Choosing between a wall-mounted and a ceiling cassette air conditioning unit largely depends on the space available and aesthetic preferences. Wall-mounted units are generally easier to install and may be less invasive, making them a good choice for both residential and small office spaces. They are visible but offer flexibility in placement and can be a feature if chosen in a complementary design or colour.
Ceiling cassette units are almost entirely concealed, except for the grille, and are designed to blend seamlessly into the ceiling, making them ideal for maintaining the aesthetic integrity of a room. They distribute air more centrally, providing even cooling or heating over a larger area, which can be more efficient for larger spaces or commercial settings. The choice may also depend on the structural limitations of the building; for example, older or listed buildings might accommodate wall-mounted units better.
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and efficiency of small air conditioning units. Basic maintenance that homeowners can perform includes cleaning or replacing the air filters regularly, which prevents the unit from overworking and reduces energy consumption. It’s also important to keep the exterior components of the unit clean and free from debris. For split systems, check that the outdoor unit is unobstructed to maintain air flow.
Professional maintenance should also be scheduled annually. This typically includes checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical connections, ensuring that all components are functioning correctly, and cleaning parts of the unit that are not easily accessible to homeowners, such as evaporator and condenser coils. Professional servicing helps to identify issues before they become major problems and can extend the life of the unit.
Yes, certain types of small air conditioning units can be installed in rooms without windows, such as ducted systems or ceiling cassette units. These units do not require a window for installation as they are integrated into the building’s structure. Ducted units, for instance, are hidden above the ceiling or below the floor and only the vent grills are visible in the room. Ceiling cassette units are installed flush with the ceiling and distribute air centrally from that point.
However, portable air conditioners, which are commonly used as small units, typically require venting through a window to expel the hot air generated during the cooling process. If a window is not available, alternative venting options such as through a wall or into an adjacent room with more ventilation might be necessary. It’s important to consult with a professional installer to understand the best type of unit for your space and to ensure it meets your air conditioning needs effectively.
When selecting a small air conditioning unit, it’s important to consider both the physical size of the unit and its capacity to effectively cool or heat the intended space. You’ll need to assess the area of the room or rooms where the unit will be installed to ensure that the unit’s output matches your needs. Additionally, consider the unit’s noise level, especially if it will be installed in a bedroom or quiet office space. Aesthetics might also play a role; many models come in a variety of colours and designs to match interior décor.
Another key factor is energy efficiency. Modern air conditioning units often come with ratings that indicate their energy usage and efficiency, which can impact long-term operating costs. Features such as programmable timers, adjustable thermostats, and smart home compatibility can also add convenience and improve energy management. Therefore, choosing a unit that balances size, capacity, and energy-efficient features with your budget is crucial for long-term satisfaction and utility savings.
For help choosing the best small air conditioning units for your property, simply give us a call or fill in our online form.
We’ll survey your property, listen to your needs and provide you with a free, no-obligation quote for the ideal system for your home or business. We try to give our customers multiple quotes wherever possible, so you can pick the best option for your budget.
