If you live in a flat, a leasehold property, or a listed building, installing a traditional split air conditioning system can feel almost impossible. Freeholder consent for an outdoor condenser, planning restrictions on the facade, space constraints on upper floors — the barriers stack up quickly. Monobloc through-the-wall air conditioners remove every single one of those obstacles by placing the compressor, heat exchangers, and fan inside a single indoor unit that vents through two small wall openings instead of relying on bulky external hardware.
The Panasonic RAC Solo range, now available from AIZO Quality Heating, represents the latest generation of this technology. These are not portable units with a hose draped out of a window. They are permanent, fixed-installation inverter heat pumps that deliver genuine heating and cooling performance year round, controlled via the Panasonic Comfort Cloud app and featuring nanoe™ X air purification.
How Monobloc Inverter Heat Pump Technology Works
A conventional split air conditioner separates the system into two halves: an indoor evaporator and an outdoor condenser connected by refrigerant pipework. That pipework must be installed, pressure-tested, and commissioned by an F-Gas certified engineer, and the outdoor unit needs a wall bracket, ground stand, or balcony — plus planning permission in sensitive locations.
A monobloc (single-block) unit puts everything into one indoor cabinet. Instead of piped refrigerant running to an external condenser, the unit exchanges heat with outside air through two wall apertures — typically 162 mm diameter on models up to 2.5 kW, rising to 202 mm on the 3.0 kW unit. Self-closing aluminium grilles sit flush with the exterior wall, opening only when the unit is running and closing automatically at rest to block draughts and insects.
The DC inverter compressor at the heart of the system continuously modulates its speed to match the room’s real-time demand rather than cycling between full power and off. This is the same inverter technology used in top-tier air source heat pumps and is what delivers the high SEER and SCOP efficiency ratings listed in the specification tables below.
Year-Round Heating and Cooling from a Single Unit
One of the most compelling advantages of the Panasonic RAC Solo is that it is a genuine reversible heat pump, not a cooling-only appliance. In summer, the refrigeration cycle extracts heat from indoor air and expels it outside through the wall apertures. In winter, the cycle reverses: the unit extracts usable heat energy from outdoor air — even at temperatures as low as −15°C — and delivers it indoors as warm air.
Summer Cooling
Cooling output from 1.73 kW to 3.50 kW depending on model, with operating range down to −5°C outdoor temperature. Quiet mode as low as 27 dB(A) — quieter than a whisper.
Winter Heating
Heating output from 1.71 kW to 3.60 kW with operation down to −15°C. A built-in preheated condensate tray prevents drainage freezing in cold weather.
Inverter Efficiency
DC inverter compressor modulates output continuously. SEER ratings up to 5.10 and SCOP up to 3.80 across the range, meaning lower running costs than fixed-speed systems.
Air Purification
Panasonic nanoe™ X technology inhibits airborne pollutants and allergens, improving indoor air quality alongside temperature control.
This dual capability means you replace two separate systems — a heater and a cooler — with one wall-mounted unit, freeing up floor space and simplifying your setup. For a detailed look at how heat pump technology compares to traditional heating methods, visit our Heat Pump Buying Guide.
R32 vs R290 Refrigerant: What Is the Difference?
The Panasonic RAC Solo range uses two different refrigerants depending on the model size. Understanding the distinction helps you choose the right unit and know what to expect during installation.
| Property | R32 (Difluoromethane) | R290 (Propane) |
|---|---|---|
| Global Warming Potential (GWP) | 675 | 3 |
| Flammability classification | A2L (mildly flammable) | A3 (flammable) |
| Used in RAC Solo models | 2.0 kW, 2.5 kW, 3.0 kW | 1.7 kW only |
| Charge quantity | Higher charge volumes | Very small charge (0.14 kg) |
| Environmental impact | Low — 66% lower GWP than older R410A | Ultra-low — effectively zero climate impact |
| EU F-Gas Regulation status | Permitted; subject to future phase-down | Natural refrigerant; not subject to phase-down |
| Installation considerations | Standard precautions for A2L gases | Specific clearance and ventilation rules per Panasonic manual |
R32 is the current industry standard for residential air conditioning, offering a good balance of performance, safety, and reduced environmental impact compared to the older R410A refrigerant it replaced. The three larger RAC Solo models (2.0 kW, 2.5 kW, and 3.0 kW) all use R32.
R290 (propane) is a natural refrigerant with a GWP of just 3, making it one of the most environmentally benign options available. It is used in the smallest RAC Solo model (1.7 kW) and carries an A3 flammability classification, which means Panasonic’s installation manual specifies particular clearance and ventilation requirements. Because the factory-sealed charge is very small (0.14 kg), the practical risk is minimal when installation guidelines are followed.
Both refrigerants benefit from the same key advantage in a monobloc system: the unit arrives factory pre-charged and sealed. No refrigerant connections are made on site, which is what eliminates the need for F-Gas certification during installation.
Installation: Simpler Than You Think
One of the biggest advantages of a monobloc air conditioner over a split system is the dramatically simplified installation process. There is no outdoor unit to mount, no refrigerant pipework to run or braze, and no vacuum or pressure testing.
Core Two Wall Openings
Two 162 mm diameter holes (202 mm for the 3.0 kW model) are cored through the external wall at the specified centres. This is the primary structural work.
Fit the Mounting Bracket
A wall bracket is secured at the chosen height. The RAC Solo supports both floor-level and high-level mounting using the appropriate accessory kit.
Hang the Unit & Fit Grilles
The unit slots onto the bracket and aligns with the wall openings. Self-closing aluminium grilles are fitted to the exterior face of the wall.
Electrical Connection
The unit runs on a standard 230V single-phase supply. A qualified electrician connects the dedicated circuit, and the system is ready to commission via the Comfort Cloud app.
Side-exit option: Where the wall openings cannot sit directly behind the unit — for example, if the external wall is offset — an optional side-exit formwork kit redirects the air path. Extension frameworks are also available for thicker-than-standard walls.
No F-Gas Certification Required
This is worth emphasising because it is one of the single biggest cost and logistics advantages of monobloc technology. With a conventional split system, UK law requires that any engineer who installs, maintains, or decommissions equipment containing fluorinated greenhouse gases must hold an F-Gas certificate. This limits who can do the work and adds significantly to installation quotes.
The Panasonic RAC Solo arrives from the factory with the refrigerant circuit fully charged, sealed, and tested. No refrigerant connections are made on site. Because there is no on-site handling of refrigerant, the installation falls outside the scope of F-Gas regulations. A competent installer with standard electrical qualifications and awareness of local building control requirements for external wall penetrations can carry out the full installation.
Important: While F-Gas certification is not required, the 1.7 kW R290 model does require adherence to Panasonic’s specific installation clearances for A3 (flammable) refrigerants. Always follow the manufacturer’s current installation manual.
For homeowners, this means a wider pool of available installers and typically lower installation costs. For trade professionals, it opens up air conditioning installations to a broader range of engineers without requiring F-Gas training and registration — a practical advantage when scheduling work and quoting projects. Learn more about our products for the trade on our For the Trade page.
Long-Term Savings and Space Efficiency
The financial case for a monobloc heat pump strengthens considerably when you look beyond the purchase price and consider the total cost of ownership over the life of the unit.
Lower Installation Costs
Without the need for an F-Gas engineer, outdoor unit mounting, or refrigerant pipework, installation costs are typically lower than those for an equivalent split system. The reduced labour time — often half a day rather than a full day — translates directly into savings.
Reduced Running Costs via Inverter Efficiency
A heat pump with an SCOP of 3.70 (the 1.7 kW R290 model, for example) delivers 3.70 kW of heating for every 1 kW of electricity consumed. Compared to a direct electric heater running at a 1:1 ratio, the heat pump is roughly 3.7 times more efficient. Paired with a solar panel system and battery storage, the effective running cost can be driven even lower by using self-generated electricity.
No Maintenance of Outdoor Equipment
Without an external condenser, there are no outdoor coils to clean, no risk of weather damage or vandalism to outdoor equipment, and no drainage trays exposed to leaf debris or freezing. This reduces long-term maintenance costs and extends the working life of the system.
Space Saved Inside and Out
The unit body is just 165 mm deep — slimmer than most wall-mounted convector heaters. There is no floor-standing indoor unit and no outdoor condenser consuming balcony, garden, or courtyard space. For flats and smaller properties, this space saving alone can justify the choice over a split system or a portable air conditioner that occupies floor area.
Panasonic RAC Solo Range at a Glance
| Model | Cooling / Heating | SEER / SCOP | Refrigerant | Wall Holes | Price (Inc. VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAC Solo 1.7 kW | 1.73 / 1.71 kW | 4.60 / 3.70 | R290 | 162 mm | £1,750.00 |
| RAC Solo 2.0 kW | 2.05 / 2.15 kW | 4.60 / 3.80 | R32 | 162 mm | £1,730.00 |
| RAC Solo 2.5 kW | 2.50 / 2.80 kW | 4.60 / 3.80 | R32 | 162 mm | £1,770.00 |
| RAC Solo 3.0 kW | 3.50 / 3.60 kW | 5.10 / 3.80 | R32 | 202 mm | £1,995.00 |
Not sure which capacity suits your room? Use our free BTU Calculator to work out the required heating and cooling output based on your room dimensions, insulation level, and glazing type.
Shop the Panasonic RAC Solo Range
Panasonic
RAC Solo 2.0 kW R32 All-in-One Air Conditioner & Heat Pump
Entry-level R32 model with 2.05 kW cooling and 2.15 kW heating. Ideal for bedrooms and home offices up to approximately 20 m².
In Stock£1,730.00 Inc. VAT
Panasonic
RAC Solo 2.5 kW R32 All-in-One Air Conditioner & Heat Pump
Mid-range model delivering 2.50 kW cooling and 2.80 kW heating. Suits living rooms, studios, and open-plan spaces up to approximately 25 m².
In Stock£1,770.00 Inc. VAT
Panasonic
RAC Solo 3.0 kW R32 All-in-One Air Conditioner & Heat Pump
Flagship model with 3.50 kW cooling and 3.60 kW heating. The highest SEER in the range at 5.10. Suits larger rooms up to approximately 30 m². Uses wider 202 mm wall openings.
In Stock£1,995.00 Inc. VAT
Panasonic
RAC Solo 1.7 kW R290 All-in-One Air Conditioner & Heat Pump
Ultra-low GWP model using natural R290 propane refrigerant with a GWP of just 3. Compact 1.73 kW cooling and 1.71 kW heating for rooms up to approximately 15 m².
Out of Stock£1,750.00 Inc. VAT
Browse the full collection including accessories and grille kits on our Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should consider a monobloc air conditioner instead of a split system?
Monobloc units are designed for situations where a conventional outdoor condenser is impractical or not permitted. This includes flats and apartments where freeholder consent for external equipment is difficult, listed buildings and conservation areas where facade-mounted hardware would affect planning, upper-floor and mid-terrace properties with no suitable outdoor mounting location, and any project where avoiding F-Gas installation costs is a priority. If you have a straightforward external wall and no restrictions, a split system may still offer a wider capacity range and marginally higher peak efficiency.
How noisy are these units?
The Panasonic RAC Solo operates at 27 dB(A) in quiet mode on the 1.7 kW model, rising to 39 dB(A) at high fan speed. To put that in context, a quiet library is around 30 dB(A) and normal conversation is around 60 dB(A). Outdoor-facing noise is higher (36–49 dB(A) depending on speed), but the self-closing grilles help contain it when the unit is idle.
Can I control the unit from my phone?
Yes. All RAC Solo models connect to the Panasonic Comfort Cloud app for remote scheduling, temperature control, and energy monitoring. The app works on iOS and Android and supports voice control through compatible smart home platforms.
Does the unit need a drain connection?
In cooling mode, moisture is removed from the air and needs to be drained. The unit features a condensate connection that can be routed to a drain or collected via a small pump. In heating mode, the built-in preheated condensate tray handles moisture without the risk of freezing that external condensers can suffer from.
What wall thickness can the unit handle?
Standard installation covers typical UK wall constructions. For walls thicker than the standard specification allows, Panasonic offers an optional extension framework kit to bridge the additional depth. Check the model’s installation manual for the exact maximum wall thickness without extensions.
Can I pair this with solar panels to cut running costs further?
Absolutely. The RAC Solo runs on standard 230V mains electricity, so any electricity generated by your solar panel system and stored in a home battery can power the unit at effectively zero marginal cost. Given the unit’s already high COP, running it on self-generated solar electricity makes the cost per kWh of delivered heating or cooling remarkably low.
Ready to Cool and Heat Without the Outdoor Unit?
Browse the full Panasonic RAC Solo range, or get in touch with our team for a personalised recommendation based on your room size and property type.
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