An air conditioner for the bedroom costs on average between 500 and 2.500 euros, including installation. The final price depends heavily on the type of system, the capacity, and the size of your bedroom. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about air conditioners for the bedroom so that you know exactly what to expect.

Which type of air conditioner is most suitable for a bedroom?

For a bedroom, a split-unit air conditioner is the most suitable. This system consists of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, operates quietly, cools efficiently, and can also heat. Because noise is particularly disruptive in a bedroom, the split-unit scores best on comfort and energy efficiency compared to other types.

A portable air conditioner is cheaper to purchase, but produces more noise and is less energy-efficient. This can be an option for occasional use, but for consistently sleeping cool, a fixed installation is the better choice. A mono-split system, where one indoor unit is connected to one outdoor unit, is the most practical and affordable solution for most bedrooms.

Do you want to know which system best suits your situation? Then use the air conditioning selection guide to quickly receive appropriate advice.

How much does an air conditioner for the bedroom cost, including installation?

A complete air conditioning system for the bedroom, including installation, typically costs between 500 and 2.500 euros. The purchase price of a split-unit air conditioner averages between 400 and 1.500 euros, depending on the brand and capacity. Installation costs are added on top of this and vary depending on the situation.

Installation costs are influenced by factors such as the distance between the indoor and outdoor units, the required pipe length, and whether a hole needs to be drilled in the wall. A simple installation is generally cheaper than a complex situation involving multiple walls or floors.

Would you like a concrete price indication for your situation? Via the pricing tool you quickly get an accurate picture of the costs.

What are the annual energy costs of a bedroom air conditioner?

The annual energy costs of an air conditioner in the bedroom average between 30 and 100 euros per year with normal use. This is based on an efficient split-unit with a high SEER value (the measure of cooling efficiency) running for a few hours per night during warmer periods.

Energy costs depend on the capacity of the air conditioner, the number of hours of use per year, and the current energy price. An air conditioner with a high SEER rating (A++ or higher) consumes significantly less power than an older or cheaper model. Modern inverter air conditioners automatically adjust their capacity to meet demand, which saves additional energy.

Keep in mind that an air conditioner used as a heat pump in the winter entails higher annual costs. However, even then, the energy consumption per degree of warmth is lower than with traditional electric heating.

How big does the air conditioner need to be for my bedroom?

For an average bedroom of 15 to 20 square meters, an air conditioner with a capacity of 2,0 to 2,5 kilowatts (kW) is sufficient. As a rule of thumb, you need approximately 100 watts of cooling capacity per square meter, although insulation quality, window surface area, and sun exposure can adjust this.

An undersized unit operates continuously at full power and cools the room insufficiently. An oversized unit cools too quickly, consequently switches on and off frequently, and regulates humidity less effectively. Both situations lead to higher energy costs and reduced comfort. A properly sized air conditioner operates more efficiently and lasts longer.

If in doubt, seek advice from an installer who takes the specific characteristics of your bedroom into account in the calculation, such as roof insulation, skylights, or an attic room with an additional heat load.

Do you need to drill a hole in the wall for an air conditioner in the bedroom?

Yes, for the installation of a split-unit air conditioner, a hole almost always needs to be drilled in the wall. The refrigerant lines, the power cable, and the condensate drain run through this hole to the outdoor unit. The hole typically has a diameter of 60 to 80 millimeters.

Drilling this hole requires precision, especially when reinforced concrete is involved. An incorrectly drilled hole can cause damage to the structure or damage the pipes. Diamond drilling is the standard method for this: it produces a clean, round hole without vibrations or cracks in the surrounding wall.

With a portable air conditioner, no hole is needed, but a hose must be routed outside through a window or door. This is less aesthetically pleasing and less efficient, but can be a temporary solution if a permanent installation is not possible.

Do you need a permit to install an air conditioner?

In most cases, you do not need a permit to install an air conditioner in your bedroom. An outdoor unit may be installed without a permit as long as it meets certain conditions, such as a maximum height and a limited encroachment on the property boundary. This applies to most homes in the Netherlands.

There are exceptions. If you live in a protected urban or rural landscape, or in a listed monument, additional rules may apply. Apartment residents also sometimes need permission from the Homeowners' Association (VvE) before installing an outdoor unit. Always check this with your municipality or VvE in advance.

Installers are generally well-informed about local regulations and can advise you on what is permitted in your situation. Furthermore, a certified installer works with F-gas certified technicians, which is legally required for working with refrigerants.

How De Betonboorder helps with the installation of your bedroom air conditioner

For the installation of a split-unit air conditioner, a precisely drilled hole in the wall is indispensable. That is exactly where we make the difference. We drill holes in concrete, masonry, and other materials for air conditioning installations daily throughout the Netherlands, quickly and without unnecessary damage to the surrounding structure.

We drill holes with the correct diameter for air conditioning pipes, typically 60 to 80 millimeters.
We work with high-quality diamond drill bits for a clean and vibration-free result.
We are available for work in reinforced concrete, masonry, and aerated concrete.
In many cases, we will be at your doorstep within two working days.
We leave the workplace neat and tidy.

Do you want to know how much it costs to drill a hole for your air conditioner, or do you want to schedule a professional immediately? Contact us and we respond within 24 hours.

How much does an air conditioner for the bedroom cost to sleep cool?