'Air conditioning units are not banned': despite misleading claims online, the UK Government makes clear that you can install air con — but there are rules that limit it, so here's what you need to know

Air conditioner in a room.

• Planning permission isn't usually required unless you're in a conservation area or listed building
• Cooling-only systems aren't covered by permitted development rules
• If in doubt, speak to your council

If you're looking for a way to avoid the sweltering heat of yet another heatwave arriving soon, air conditioning looks awfully tempting – so much so that in the UK, portable AC units are sold out almost everywhere or going for silly money on eBay, while air con installers are booked far into the future.