Reece Sleightholme of Ipswich-based Green Technology Solutions (GTS) saw a surge in demand last month from residential and commercial clients seeking relief from soaring temperatures.
The increase comes after East Anglia recorded the UK’s highest ever June temperature, with the mercury climbing into the high 30s.
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The temperature in one part of Suffolk – Santon Downham in Thetford Forest – broke records at a high of 37.3C (around 99.1F)
Mr Sleightholme is director of GTS – which is part of Ipswich-based mechanical and engineering business DPL Group in Bluestem Road. Founders Gary and Fran Dinsdale retired earlier this year.
The £36m turnover parent company in Bluestem Road employs around 180 people.
GTS – one of its newest businesses – specialises in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, heat pumps, solar PV and battery storage.
Mr Sleightholme was appointed as GTS’ first director in November 2023.
“We’ve absolutely seen a rise in enquiries,” he said.
The benefits of air conditioning include that it can provide all-year-round temperature control – offering cooling, heating and de-humidification, he explained.
“It’s also affordable – most systems only require a single power supply to the outdoor unit and provide high efficiency with low running costs.
“One of the main incentives currently is that these systems are eligible for a 0% VAT rate.”
The business aims to serve as a one-stop shop for green heating and cooling technologies.
Since his appointment, the company has grown to a 12-strong team.
Aircon installation is more straightforward than many think, he said.
“For a standard split system in a typical residential property, the time frame should average between one to two days.
“Generally, the installation of standard air conditioning systems in the domestic market does not require planning permission as it commonly falls under permitted development rights.
“The important things to consider are your outdoor unit size, unit placement and unit positioning, so it’s always worth consulting with your contractor to ensure there will be no issues further down the line.”