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Air conditioning without an outdoor unit

By Airva Editorial · Reviewed by Airva Technical Review · Updated 13 July 2026

When there is genuinely no place for an outdoor unit — for example some flats or conservation-restricted properties — systems that avoid a separate external condenser can be worth exploring.

How they differ

These systems handle the heat exchange differently from a standard split system, typically through wall vents rather than a wall-mounted condenser. That changes what they suit:

  • Best for specific single rooms where an external unit is impossible.
  • Consider cooling performance, wall requirements and appearance compared with a conventional split.

Is it right for you?

For most homes a standard split or multi-split is more effective, so this is usually a fallback rather than a first choice. An installer survey is the best way to confirm feasibility.

Request an installer match and we will factor in your constraints.

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