Heat Pumps
Heat Pumps | Heating and Air Conditioning | Bristol
From the colourful streets of Clifton to the bustling harbourside, HEP keeps Bristol homes comfortable all year with ultra-efficient heat pumps that deliver both heating and air conditioning without the carbon guilt. Our engineers blend local know-how with cutting-edge tech, designing systems that harvest ambient air or ground energy, slash utility bills, and whisper quietly in the background.
Every installation starts with a free survey, clear quote, and honest advice. MCS-accredited installers handle everything—from planning permission and grant applications to neat pipework and after-care—so you can simply enjoy perfect temperatures, cleaner air, and impressive savings. When the West Country weather turns unpredictable, just tap the HEP app or call our 24/7 support team; we’ll make sure your comfort never misses a beat.
FAQs
How do heat pumps work and are they suitable for Bristol’s climate?
A heat pump transfers heat rather than creating it. In winter the outdoor unit absorbs low-grade heat from the air (or ground) and upgrades it via a refrigerant cycle to provide comfortable indoor heating. In summer the cycle is reversed so the system functions like an air conditioner, moving unwanted indoor heat outside. Bristol’s mild maritime climate—with average winter temperatures well above –5 °C—sits squarely within the operating range of modern heat pumps, meaning they deliver reliable heating even on colder days while offering efficient cooling when temperatures rise.
What types of heat pumps do you install in Bristol homes?
We supply and fit three main categories: • Air-to-air (split or multi-split) systems that provide ductless heating and cooling through wall-mounted indoor heads. • Air-to-water units that connect to radiators or under-floor circuits, giving you whole-house central heating and domestic hot water. • Ground-source (geothermal) pumps for properties with suitable garden space or borehole access; these offer the highest efficiencies and very low noise. During your free survey we’ll assess insulation levels, existing emitters and outdoor space to advise on the best option for your property and budget.
How energy-efficient is a heat pump compared with a gas boiler or conventional air conditioner?
Where a boiler turns £1 of gas into roughly 90p of heat, an A-rated air-source heat pump typically delivers 300–400 % efficiency (a Coefficient of Performance of 3–4). In cooling mode the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) can exceed 20, reducing electricity use by up to 50 % compared with older split AC units. Thanks to Bristol’s relatively mild winters, the seasonal COP (SCOP) remains high, further shrinking carbon emissions—by around 45–60 % versus a modern condensing boiler—and lowering running costs, especially if paired with a low-carbon electricity tariff or rooftop solar PV.
What is the installation process and how long does it take?
1. Free site survey and heat-loss calculation (1–2 hours). 2. Detailed quotation, system design and grant paperwork (2–3 days). 3. Scheduling and equipment ordering (1–2 weeks, subject to stock). 4. Installation: • Air-to-air systems: typically one day for a single split, two days for multi-splits. • Air-to-water replacement for a combi boiler: two to three days including cylinder fit. • Ground-source loop drilling/trenching plus indoor plant: five to seven days. 5. Commissioning, user training and hand-over on the final day. All works are carried out by our MCS-accredited engineers, and we handle Bristol City Council planning checks where required.
Are there any grants or financing options for Bristol residents?
Yes. Domestic customers can currently apply for the government Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers £7,500 off an air-source or £7,500–£9,000 off a ground-source installation, provided the home meets basic insulation standards. The ECO4 scheme may contribute further for eligible low-income households. Heat pumps also benefit from 0 % VAT on both equipment and labour until March 2027. We partner with Hitachi Capital and Novuna to provide low-interest finance or ‘pay-as-you-save’ plans so you can spread any remaining upfront cost over 3–10 years.
How much maintenance does a heat pump require and what after-sales service do you provide?
Heat pumps are low-maintenance. Homeowners should keep outdoor coils clear of leaves/debris and clean indoor filters every 1–3 months. We recommend a professional service once a year, during which we check refrigerant charge, electrical connections, flow rates, antifreeze (ground-source), and update firmware. Annual servicing maintains the manufacturer’s 5–7 year parts warranty and ensures peak efficiency. Our Bristol customers can join our HeatCare Plan, which includes the yearly visit, priority call-outs within 24 hours, and discounted labour for any non-warranty repairs.