How much does aircon installation cost in South Africa?
For most homes, a midwall split inverter aircon supplied and installed in South Africa costs between roughly R10,500 and R33,500 — the exact figure depends mostly on the size (BTU) of the unit and the brand you choose. Below we break down what drives the price, with real Van Biljoens installed prices, so you know what to expect before requesting a quote.
Typical aircon prices by size (supplied and installed)
Air conditioners are rated in BTU (British Thermal Units) — the bigger the room, the higher the BTU you need. These are typical installed price ranges for inverter midwall splits:
| Unit size (BTU) | Suits room size | Installed price (incl. VAT) |
|---|---|---|
| 9,000 BTU | Up to ~20 m² | R10,500 – R18,200 |
| 12,000 BTU | ~20–30 m² | R11,300 – R22,500 |
| 18,000 BTU | ~30–45 m² | R14,400 – R29,300 |
| 24,000 BTU | ~45–60 m² | R18,200 – R33,350 |
| 30,000 – 36,000 BTU | Large / open-plan | R22,200 – R38,100 |
Within each size, entry-level brands like Alliance, Gree and Midea sit at the lower end, while premium ranges like LG ARTCOOL and Samsung’s AR80/AR9500 sit at the top. Prices are for standard back-to-back installation, incl. VAT (May 2026, subject to change). Not sure what size you need? Use our BTU calculator to match a unit to your room before you budget.
What affects the cost of aircon installation?
Two installations of the same unit can differ by thousands of rand. The main factors:
- Unit size and type — higher BTU costs more; inverter units cost more than fixed-speed but save on running costs.
- Single vs. multi-split — running several indoor units off one outdoor unit raises the price.
- Pipe run distance — the further the indoor and outdoor units are apart, the more copper piping and labour required.
- Mounting and access — high walls, face-brick, double-storey homes or awkward outdoor-unit placement add labour.
- Electrical work — a new dedicated circuit or isolator from the DB board adds cost.
- Brand — premium ranges (LG ARTCOOL, Samsung AR80/AR9500) cost more than entry-level (Alliance, Gree, Midea). We supply and install all major brands — LG, Samsung, Carrier, Alliance, Gree, Midea, Sinclair and Dunham Bush.
Why professional installation matters
A correctly installed aircon runs efficiently, lasts longer and keeps its warranty valid. Poor installation causes gas leaks, weak cooling, higher electricity bills and early compressor failure. Registered installers also handle the refrigerant safely and legally. With Van Biljoens installing across Pretoria since 1956, your unit is fitted right the first time.
Get an accurate quote
The figures above are guidelines — the only way to know your exact cost is a quick assessment. Request a free quote or call us on 012 330 0421, and we’ll recommend the right unit for your space and give you a fixed, all-in installed price.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to install an air conditioner in South Africa?
A midwall split inverter supplied and installed typically costs R10,500–R33,500 depending on the BTU size and brand. A 9,000 BTU unit for a bedroom starts around R10,500 installed, while a 24,000 BTU unit for a large living area can reach R33,000+ for premium brands.
Is installation included in the aircon price?
At Van Biljoens our quotes are all-in — the price covers the unit, standard installation, mounting and standard piping. Any extra electrical work or long pipe runs are quoted up front.
What size aircon do I need for my room?
As a rough guide, allow about 450–500 BTU per square metre. A 20 m² bedroom suits a 9,000–12,000 BTU unit. Use our BTU calculator for an accurate match.
Does aircon installation include a warranty?
Yes — units carry the manufacturer’s warranty, and professional installation by registered technicians keeps that warranty valid.
How long does installation take?
A standard single split installation usually takes 2 to 4 hours. More complex or multi-unit jobs may take a full day.
