RightAir Solutions is a company that specialises in commercial air conditioning services.
Yes, it can. Modern air conditioning systems, especially reverse cycle models, work well for keeping UK homes warm in winter. If used properly, they offer an efficient and cost effective way to stay comfortable.
Picture your living room lit by fairy lights, cinnamon in the air, and guests arriving wrapped in scarves. They feel cosy because your air conditioning quietly does its job without running up the bill.
Many people still think air conditioning is just for summer. But with reverse cycle and heat pump technology, it is ideal for colder weather. At Christmas, when you often only heat the rooms you use, air con gives you comfort and control without wasting energy. The result? A warm winter, lower bills, and consistent thermal comfort.
It is similar to a fridge working backwards. Rather than pulling warmth out, it gathers heat from the outdoor air and transfers it inside. Even when it is just 5 to 7°C outside, it still performs well.
Also known as air to air heat pumps, these systems use a Coefficient of Performance. This figure shows how much heat is produced per unit of electricity. A COP of 3 means the unit creates three times more heat than it consumes in power. Inverter technology helps reduce energy use by keeping the temperature steady instead of switching on and off.
Older models use short, powerful bursts of energy to reach a set temperature, then shut off. Inverter systems work differently. They adjust gradually and avoid energy spikes, keeping your home warm without large fluctuations. This means greater efficiency, consistent comfort, and lower bills.
Companies like Mitsubishi Electric UK offer systems that meet Building Regulations Part L, which helps ensure heating performance and energy compliance.
Pro Tip: Run your air conditioner in eco mode overnight to maintain warmth while saving energy.
Before you rely on air con to heat your home, make sure your space is ready. These simple checks can improve comfort and save money.
Check insulation around doors, windows and walls
Clear the unit’s space so air can circulate freely
Match the unit to the room size too small and it struggles; too large and it cycles inefficiently
Seal any gaps that let warm air escape
Check the energy label newer models are usually more efficient and may carry higher EPC ratings
Following these steps gives you the best chance of keeping the heat in and the bills down.
What are the best settings for heating with air conditioning?
Getting the most out of your air conditioning system in winter often comes down to small setting adjustments. First, aim to set the temperature between 18 and 21°C, which offers a good balance between comfort and efficiency. Using the timer function ensures your home is warm when you need it to be, without running the unit unnecessarily. If your model supports it, activate setback mode when you are away, which maintains a lower level of warmth rather than letting the room go cold.
Airflow direction also makes a difference. Aim the vents downward to allow warm air to spread evenly throughout the space. Close doors to rooms that are not being used and take advantage of interior doors to zone the space. This helps trap warmth where it is needed most. Many systems also include an eco mode, which is ideal for maintaining steady heat output at a reduced energy cost. Smart thermostats, like those from Tado, can further optimise your setup. These devices support temperature banding and make it easier to control and schedule heating in different areas of the home.
Looking for easy Christmas heating tips for a warm and welcoming home?
When visitors are due, your heating habits may need a tweak. These simple actions can help you stay ahead:
Schedule the air con to warm shared spaces in advance
Focus warmth on the living room or dining area
Use curtains and rugs to reduce heat loss
Keep internal doors shut to prevent heat from escaping
Make sure vents and airways are not blocked
Shut doors to unused rooms
Pre-warm the living area 30 minutes ahead
Draw curtains before dusk to keep heat in
Set the air conditioning to a comfortable 20°C
Light festive candles — they add cheer and a bit of warmth
These tweaks help keep things comfortable without pushing up your bill.
Is it cheaper to use air conditioning than your boiler?
For many UK households, using air conditioning to heat specific rooms during winter can indeed cost less than relying on central heating. High efficiency air conditioning units with a good Coefficient of Performance can produce up to four times more heat than the energy they consume. This means you get more warmth for each pound spent on electricity compared to gas or traditional electric heaters.
Another major factor is control. Air conditioning lets you heat only the rooms you are using, which reduces wasted energy. With smart settings, you can further optimise how and when heating is delivered. Current electricity tariffs, when paired with efficient units, often work out cheaper than using a gas boiler to heat the whole home. Ofgem data supports this zonal approach to heating as a cost saver.
For example, running a modern AC unit at 18°C for five hours a day could cost around £7 to £9 a week. This compares favourably with gas boilers, which often run longer and heat larger spaces regardless of actual use. The ability to customise your heating around your festive routine can help lower bills and improve comfort throughout the season.
Pro Tip: Always pre warm your main living area before guests arrive to reduce peak time heating demand.
What can reduce air conditioning efficiency in winter?
Using your air conditioning incorrectly can limit its effectiveness and increase running costs. One of the most common mistakes is setting the temperature too high in hopes that it will warm the space faster. This only results in more energy use without any speed advantage. Similarly, turning the unit on and off manually rather than using the timer or setback function disrupts consistent heating and causes unnecessary strain on the system.
Neglecting routine maintenance can also lower performance. Filters need to be cleaned or replaced regularly. Dust and debris reduce airflow and make the unit work harder than necessary. Another overlooked issue is the outdoor unit. If it becomes blocked by leaves or snow, efficiency drops, and the unit could even shut down.
To avoid these problems, stick to efficient settings, clean your filters every few weeks, and check that the outdoor unit remains clear and unobstructed. These small habits go a long way in helping your system run better and last longer.
What should you do if your AC cannot keep up?
Sometimes extra warmth is needed, especially during freezing spells. Here is how to top up your heating without using too much energy:
Use portable heaters on a timer for short bursts of heat
Consider infrared panels to provide direct warmth
Install draught excluders to stop cold air from sneaking in
Fit thermal curtains to help trap warmth overnight
Fall back on your radiator system if temperatures drop suddenly
Using a combination of these gives you flexibility and peace of mind without needing to overuse your AC.
What kind of maintenance does your air conditioner need for winter?
A few quick checks make a big difference before cold weather sets in:
Clean or replace filters
Test the remote and check the batteries
Make sure the outdoor unit is clear and dry
A winter service typically includes:
Filter cleaning or replacement
Checking refrigerant levels
Inspecting the electrics and connections
Testing airflow across vents
Calibrating the controls or smart thermostat
These checks ensure your system runs safely and smoothly all season. Local services like RightAir can assist with routine inspections.
With the right approach, your air conditioning can be a reliable and cost effective way to stay warm this Christmas.
Try out the settings, seal any draughts and focus on heating the rooms you use most. With smart controls and a few backup plans, your home can stay comfortable, even when the weather turns cold. Whether you are after Christmas heating tips or just looking to enjoy an air conditioning warm winter, you now have the knowledge to make it work.
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