No — F-Gas certification is not required to install the Panasonic RAC Solo. Because the unit arrives pre-charged with refrigerant and has no refrigerant connections during installation, installers do not need an F-Gas qualification to carry out the installation. This makes the RAC Solo a significantly more accessible and straightforward option compared to traditional split-system air conditioners — and opens up installation to a wider range of qualified engineers.
Panasonic RAC Solo
Air Conditioning Without the Outdoor Unit
A complete heating and cooling solution that fits where traditional air conditioning can't — no outdoor unit, no refrigerant pipework, no planning permission required. Just two small holes in a perimeter wall and you're ready to go.
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Is the RAC Solo Right For You?
The RAC Solo was designed for the spaces where traditional air conditioning has never been an option. If any of the following sounds familiar, this could be exactly what you've been looking for.
Living in a flat or apartment?
No external wall space for an outdoor unit? No problem. The RAC Solo needs nothing on the outside of your building except two discreet wall grilles — making it the perfect solution for apartment living.
Renting your home?
Many landlords won't allow the structural changes needed for a traditional split system. The RAC Solo's minimal footprint and simple installation makes it far easier to get approval — and it can even be removed when you leave.
In a listed building or conservation area?
Planning restrictions often make a conventional outdoor unit impossible. The RAC Solo's discreet external grilles are a far less intrusive alternative that's more likely to meet local authority requirements.
Running a holiday let or rental property?
Offer guests year-round comfort without the cost and complexity of a full split system installation. The RAC Solo heats and cools efficiently, making your property more attractive whatever the season — and justifying a higher nightly rate.
Working from home?
Keep your home office comfortable year-round without disrupting the rest of the house. The RAC Solo's quiet operation — as low as 26dB(A) — means it won't disturb calls or concentration.
Whatever your situation, if you've been told air conditioning isn't possible — the RAC Solo might just prove that wrong.
How Does It Work?
Unlike a traditional split system air conditioner, the RAC Solo doesn't need an outdoor unit to function. The entire system is contained within a single indoor unit — all it needs is access to outside air through two small holes in a perimeter wall.
1
Two small wall holes
Two holes are drilled through a perimeter wall — typically 162mm in diameter, roughly the size of a standard core drill. These are the only external modifications required.
2
Air exchange through the wall
The unit draws in fresh outside air through one hole and expels air through the other — this is how it transfers heat in and out of your room, replacing the role of the outdoor unit entirely.
3
Heat or cool your room
Using DC Inverter technology the RAC Solo efficiently heats or cools your space — reaching your desired temperature quickly with the Dual Power mode, then maintaining it quietly and efficiently.
4
Self-contained and discreet
The self-closing grille on the front of the unit only opens during operation — keeping the unit looking clean and preventing draughts when not in use.
Panasonic RAC Solo
Why Choose the RAC Solo?
The RAC Solo isn't just a compromise solution for difficult spaces — it's a genuinely capable, high-efficiency heating and cooling system that stands on its own merits.
No Outdoor Unit Required
No outdoor unit means no planning permission, no external wall fixings and no impact on your building's appearance. Just two discreet wall grilles are all that's visible from outside.
Heats Down to -15°C
Not just a summer cooling solution. The RAC Solo operates in heating mode down to -15°C outdoor temperature, making it a genuine year-round comfort solution for UK climates.
A-Rated Energy Efficiency
All models carry an A-rated SCOP heating efficiency rating, keeping running costs low and making the RAC Solo a responsible long-term investment.
Whisper Quiet Operation
With indoor sound levels as low as 26dB(A) — quieter than a library — the RAC Solo won't disrupt sleep, work or conversation.
DC Inverter Technology
Continuously adjusts output to match the exact heating or cooling demand of your room — avoiding the energy waste of systems that simply switch on and off.
Wi-Fi Control via App
Control your RAC Solo from anywhere using the Panasonic Aquarea Home App — set schedules, adjust temperatures and monitor performance from your phone.
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Easy Installation
What Do You Need to Install the RAC Solo?
A Perimeter Wall
The RAC Solo must be installed against a wall that communicates with the outside. This is the only structural requirement — the wall simply needs to be accessible for drilling two holes.
A Standard Power Socket
The unit runs from a standard 230V supply. No specialist electrical installation is required — just a dedicated socket near the installation point.
A Qualified Installer
Installation must be carried out by a qualified engineer. Oceanair can help connect you with an approved installer in your area.
Enough Wall Space
The unit itself is 165mm deep and available in two widths — 810mm for the 1.7kW model and 1010mm for the 2.0kW, 2.5kW and 3.0kW models.
Frequently asked questions
Does an installer need F-Gas to install Panasonic Rac Solo Air Conditioning?
Is planning permission required for air conditioning without an outdoor unit?
In most cases no — because there is no external condenser unit to fix to the outside of your building, the RAC Solo is far less likely to require planning permission than a conventional split system. Only two small discreet wall grilles are visible from outside. However we always recommend checking with your local planning authority before installation, particularly if your property is a listed building, a flat, or sits within a conservation area where additional restrictions may apply.
Can I install the RAC Solo in a rented property?
The RAC Solo is one of the most landlord-friendly air conditioning solutions available. Because it requires no outdoor unit and only two small wall holes, many landlords who would refuse a conventional split system are more open to approving the RAC Solo. We always recommend getting written permission from your landlord before installation. The unit can also be removed when you leave, making it a practical long-term investment even in rented accommodation.
What size RAC Solo do I need for my room?
As a general guide the four models cover the following room sizes:
1.7kW P-MOG16IC5-UK — suitable for small rooms up to approximately 15m²
2.0kW P-MOZ20IC5-UK — suitable for rooms up to approximately 20m²
2.5kW P-MOZ25IC5-UK — suitable for rooms up to approximately 25m²
3.0kW P-MOZ30IC5-UK — suitable for larger rooms up to approximately 30m²
Room size guidance is approximate and will vary depending on factors such as ceiling height, insulation, window size and sun exposure. If you are unsure which model is right for your space please contact Oceanair and we'll be happy to advise.
Does the RAC Solo work in winter?
Yes — the RAC Solo is a full heat pump, not just a cooling unit. All models operate in heating mode down to -15°C outdoor temperature, making them perfectly suited to UK winters. The R32 models also feature a no frost system with a preheated condenser water tray to maintain performance in cold conditions.
How much does it cost to run?
Running costs will vary depending on your usage, room size and local energy tariffs. However all RAC Solo models carry an A-rated SCOP heating efficiency rating, meaning they are significantly more efficient than electric panel heaters or storage heaters. As a heat pump the RAC Solo produces more heat energy than the electrical energy it consumes — typically delivering around 3kW of heat for every 1kW of electricity used.
Can I install it myself or do I need a professional?
The RAC Solo must be installed by a qualified engineer. While the installation is simpler than a conventional split system — requiring no refrigerant connections — it does involve drilling through a perimeter wall and making electrical connections which must be carried out safely and correctly. Oceanair can help connect you with an approved installer in your area.
What accessories do I need?
The RAC Solo requires external wall grilles for the two air holes — these are included when you purchase the bundle option. If you purchase the unit only you will need to source external grilles separately. Optional accessories include insect protection kits, corner installation formwork for side exit configurations, bottom cover kits for overhead installation and a condensate drain pipe heater kit for cold climates. All accessories are available from Oceanair.
Does it come with a warranty?
Yes — the Panasonic RAC Solo comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For full warranty terms and duration please contact Oceanair or refer to the documentation supplied with your unit.
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Find Your Perfect RAC Solo
Choose from four models ranging from 1.7kW to 3.0kW, available as a unit only or as a complete bundle with everything you need for installation. Free delivery on all orders.
