Heat Pumps
Heat Pumps | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Bristol
When the weather in Bristol swings from misty mornings to sudden summer highs, you don’t have time for an unreliable system. HEP’s certified technicians specialize in seamless HVAC unit replacement, swapping out outdated equipment for high-efficiency heat pumps that cut energy bills while keeping every room perfectly balanced. We arrive on schedule, protect your home with drop cloths, and handle everything from secure removal of the old unit to precise calibration of the new one—so all you notice is the comfort.
Backed by transparent quotes and industry-leading warranties, our local team pairs top-tier technology with small-town courtesy. Whether you’re upgrading before a heatwave or responding to an unexpected breakdown, we tailor solutions to your square footage, air-quality needs, and budget. Discover why Bristol homeowners trust HEP to make their houses feel just right, season after season.
FAQs
Are air-source heat pumps really efficient enough for Bristol’s climate?
Yes. Bristol’s relatively mild winters and moderate summers are ideal for modern air-source heat pumps. Current inverter-driven models maintain efficient heating down to around –10 °C and deliver cooling just like a standard air conditioner in summer. Because the city rarely experiences extreme temperatures, a correctly sized pump can provide year-round comfort while using 25–50 % less electricity than older electric resistance heaters or standard gas boilers plus separate AC units.
How long will a full HVAC replacement with a heat-pump system take?
For most domestic properties the process takes 1–3 working days. Day 1 is spent removing the old indoor air handler and outdoor condenser/boiler, upgrading pipework or ducting, and setting the concrete pad or wall brackets for the new outdoor unit. Day 2 is dedicated to mounting the indoor unit, flushing and pressure-testing the refrigerant lines, wiring controls, and charging the system. If required, Day 3 is used for commissioning, balancing airflow, and homeowner hand-over. Large homes or upgrades that add new ducts may extend the schedule slightly, but we always confirm the timetable during the pre-install survey.
What lifespan and maintenance should I expect from my new heat-pump HVAC system?
Quality heat pumps typically last 15–20 years. To reach the upper end of that range you need: • An annual service by an F-Gas–certified engineer (filter change, coil clean, refrigerant check, software update). • Quarterly homeowner tasks such as rinsing outdoor coils and cleaning indoor return-air filters. • Keeping the area around the outdoor unit clear for unrestricted airflow (at least 300 mm on all sides). Following these steps protects the compressor, preserves efficiency, and keeps the manufacturer warranty—often 5–10 years—fully valid.
Will replacing my old system with a heat pump really lower my energy bills?
In most Bristol homes the answer is yes. A heat pump’s coefficient of performance (COP) is typically 3–4, meaning you get 3–4 kW of heat for every 1 kW of electricity used. Compared with a 90 % efficient gas boiler plus separate SEER 13 AC, annual savings run 25–40 %, rising to 50 % or more if you currently rely on electric resistance or older oil heating. Pairing the new unit with a smart thermostat and utilising Bristol’s time-of-use tariffs can boost savings further. We provide a personalised running-cost comparison during the quotation.
Are there grants or financing options for heat-pump installations in Bristol?
Yes. As of 2024, homeowners in Bristol (and the wider South-West) can apply for the UK Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers up to £7,500 towards an air-source heat pump. VAT on heat-pump installations is currently 0 % until March 2027. Bristol City Council also supports low-interest "City Leap" green-energy loans, and some energy suppliers offer cashback or tariff discounts when you install a heat pump. Our team handles the paperwork and will deduct confirmed grant amounts directly from your quotation.
Do I need planning permission or Building Regulations approval to fit a heat pump?
Most domestic heat-pump replacements fall under "permitted development" in England, so formal planning permission is not required—provided the outdoor unit is under 0.6 m³, sits at least 1 m from the property boundary, and is installed on the side or rear of the house. Flats, listed buildings, or installations in conservation areas may need specific consent. Regardless of planning status, the work must comply with Building Regulations Parts L (energy efficiency) and F (ventilation). We are MCS- and REFCOM-accredited, notify Building Control on your behalf, and supply the certificate you’ll need if you ever sell the property.