Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions we get most often. If yours isn't here, email hello@aircondrop.co.uk.

What is aircondrop.co.uk?

We're an independent UK service that tracks portable air conditioner stock across major UK retailers and emails subscribers the moment a previously out-of-stock model returns. We also publish practical buying guides. We're not a retailer — every product link points to the actual UK retailer's page.

How often will I get emails?

Only when stock returns for a tracked model. During heatwaves that might be several times a week; through winter, essentially never. We don't send newsletters, roundups, or "just checking in" emails.

Which retailers do you monitor?

Currently: Currys, AO, Argos, John Lewis, Very, and eBay. The list grows as we add coverage. Some outbound links are affiliate — see the affiliate disclosure.

How do you know when something's back in stock?

We poll each retailer's product availability at short intervals. When a previously out-of-stock unit becomes available, an alert email fires. There's no scraping around paywalls — we use retailer product APIs and public product pages.

Are the links affiliate? What does that mean?

Some are. If you buy through an affiliate link, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate revenue does not influence which products we list. See the affiliate disclosure for the full picture.

Do you sell my email?

No. We use your email solely to send restock alerts and (rarely) service messages about your subscription. See the privacy policy. No third-party sharing, ever.

How do I unsubscribe?

Every alert email has a one-click unsubscribe link at the bottom. No confirmation step, no account deletion form — one click and you're out. You can also reply to any email with "unsubscribe" and we'll remove you within a day.

Do you feature every portable AC on the market?

Not yet. We curate — the tracked catalogue covers a spread of BTU sizes, price bands, and recognised brands. Coverage grows as we add retailer integrations. If a specific model is missing and you'd like alerts on it, email us.

What BTU do I need for my room?

Rough rule: about 100 BTU per m² for an average UK room. A 20 m² bedroom typically wants 9,000 BTU; a 25 m² living room, 12,000. Adjustments matter: south-facing rooms, top-floor flats, kitchens, and rooms with more than two people all need more. See the buying guide for the full sizing table.

I got an alert but the product's out of stock again — why?

During heatwaves, portable ACs can sell out within minutes of returning to stock. Our alerts fire the moment we detect availability, but we can't guarantee stock is still there by the time you click. If you're seriously in the market during a heat spike, act quickly.