Lidl is about to launch an affordable air conditioner to save us from the heatwave

If, like most people, you’re struggling with the heatwave hitting large parts of the UK this week, chances are you’re trying nearly anything to stay cool. Fans near bowls of ice, curtains closed all day, exercise pre-sunrise, we’re doing it all. But if none of this is enough, a portable air conditioning unit is the next point of call.

Portable air conditioners are compact, freestanding units designed to cool a single room rather than an entire home. They work by drawing in warm air, cooling it internally using a refrigerant system, and then circulating cooler air back into the space. Most models come with an exhaust hose that needs to be positioned out of a window to release hot air outside, preventing it from building up indoors.

They don’t require installation, so they’re a much more flexible option (and often more affordable) for short-term or seasonal use during hot weather. And this week, Lidl announced it would be releasing an air conditioner in the middle aisle. It’s priced at just £149, and it has three operating modes: air conditioning, fan cooling and dehumidifying.

As with many of Lidl’s seasonal home and tech deals, the air conditioner is expected to be available in limited quantities and is likely to be in high demand given the current weather conditions.

Read more: Best handheld fans for 2026, tested

When can you buy the air conditioner at Lidl?

The Tronic three-in-one air conditioner will land in stores this week, on Thursday, 25 June. The full range will be available in stores nationwide, while stocks last.

How much is the air conditioner at Lidl?

Lidl’s air conditioner will cost £149. You’ll also find other cooling tools in the middle aisle, starting from as little as £3.99. These include fans of all kinds, cooling pillows, and dog cooling mats for our furry friends.

What is the difference between a fan and an air conditioner?

Fans don’t actually cool the air; they just circulate it, creating a breeze that helps you feel cooler as sweat evaporates from your skin. They’re useful for quick relief, but they won’t lower the actual room temperature.

Portable air conditioners actively cool the air. They pull in warm air, cool it internally, and release it back into the room while venting hot air outside through a hose. This means they can reduce the temperature in a space, making them far more effective during sustained heat.

Best portable air conditioners

If you miss out on Lidl’s affordable unit, these are the best portable air conditioners from our review.

Read more: The best products to keep you cool during a UK heatwave