Ductless Mini-splits
Ductless Mini-splits | Air Conditioning | Heating and Air Conditioning | Bristol
Discover a smarter way to stay comfortable in Bristol with HEP’s ductless mini-splits. These sleek units deliver whisper-quiet heating and air conditioning without the bulky ductwork, so you gain efficient climate control and extra space in every room. Whether you’re renovating a historic townhouse near the harbor or adding a sunroom to a modern flat, our systems adapt effortlessly, trimming energy bills while keeping indoor temperatures just right all year long.
From fast, clean installations to intuitive remote controls and dependable maintenance, HEP handles every detail. Enjoy personalized zones that let each family member choose their ideal setting, breathe easier with built-in air filtration, and relax knowing our licensed technicians stand behind every project. Ready to elevate your home’s comfort and efficiency? Talk to HEP today and feel the difference ductless can make.
FAQs
What exactly is a ductless mini-split system and how does it cool or heat my home?
A ductless mini-split is a type of heat-pump that delivers heating and air conditioning without the need for large supply and return ductwork. It has two main parts: an outdoor condenser/compressor and one or more indoor air-handling units (also called heads or cassettes). Refrigerant lines and a small control cable run through a 50–75 mm (about 2–3 inch) wall opening, carrying heat out of the home in summer and bringing it in during winter. Each indoor unit is equipped with an electronic expansion valve and an inverter-driven fan coil, allowing precise temperature control in its individual room or “zone.” Because the compressor is variable-speed, the system modulates output rather than cycling on/off, which boosts efficiency and comfort.
Are ductless mini-splits suitable for Bristol’s mild, often damp climate?
Yes. Bristol’s coastal-maritime climate—with average summer highs around 22 °C and winter lows seldom below freezing—falls squarely within a mini-split’s optimal operating envelope. Modern cold-climate heat-pump models maintain 100 % rated heating capacity down to about –10 °C and will still produce useful heat at –20 °C, temperatures Bristol rarely sees. In cooling mode, the system’s dehumidification capability helps handle the city’s frequent humidity spikes, making indoor spaces feel cooler at higher thermostat settings and reducing the risk of mould.
How much does it cost to install a ductless mini-split system in Bristol?
Pricing depends on the number of indoor units, their capacities, installation complexity, and whether electrical upgrades are required. As a general guide: • Single-zone (one outdoor + one indoor head) 2.5–3.5 kW systems typically start around £2,000–£2,800 fully installed. • Multi-zone systems serving three average-sized rooms are usually £5,000–£7,000. • Larger whole-home solutions with five or more heads can reach £9,000–£12,000. Unlike central ducted units, there is no expense for running new ductwork, and many homeowners qualify for 0% VAT on heat-pump installations plus grants or low-interest financing under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which currently offers £7,500 toward an eligible heat pump.
What advantages do ductless mini-splits offer over traditional ducted or window AC systems?
• Energy efficiency – Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) values of 4–5 mean you get up to 4–5 kWh of heating or cooling for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed. • Zoned comfort – Each indoor unit has its own thermostat and fan speed, eliminating hot/cold spots and letting occupants tailor temperatures room by room. • No ducts – You avoid the 20–30 % energy loss common in ductwork and keep period properties intact. • Quiet operation – Indoor heads run as low as 19 dB(A); outdoor units typically sit between 45–55 dB(A), quieter than most combi boilers. • Improved indoor air quality – Multi-stage filtration captures dust, pollen and odours; optional plasma or UV modules are available for allergy sufferers. • Quick installation – Most single-zone jobs are completed in one day with minimal disruption.
What regular maintenance does a ductless mini-split require?
Homeowners should gently vacuum or rinse the washable air filters on each indoor unit every 4–6 weeks (more often in homes with pets or smokers). Keep the outdoor condenser clear of leaves, debris and vegetation, allowing at least 300 mm clearance on all sides. Annually, schedule a professional service to: • Check refrigerant pressures and temperatures. • Deep-clean indoor coils and condensate trays to prevent mould. • Inspect electrical connections, fan motors and inverter boards. • Verify drain lines are free-flowing. • Update firmware/controls when applicable. Routine care prolongs equipment life (often 15–20 years) and preserves the manufacturer’s warranty.
Can one outdoor unit run several indoor heads, and how do I choose the right size system?
Yes. Multi-split condensers can support between two and eight indoor units, each independently controlled. During a free in-home survey our engineers: • Measure room dimensions, insulation levels and window orientation to determine heat-load (kW) for each zone. • Ensure the outdoor unit’s total capacity meets simultaneous heating/cooling demands with diversity taken into account. • Plan the most discreet line-set routes, electrical runs and condensate drains. • Verify structural suitability for wall-, floor- or ceiling-mounted heads. Proper sizing is critical; undersized systems will struggle on peak days, while oversized units short-cycle, wasting energy. We use industry-standard calculations (BS EN 12831 and 14511) to provide a detailed proposal before any work begins.