Ducted air conditioning across Bristol
In an older house in Bristol, the loft and any existing bulkheads decide whether a ducted layout will work. For a renovation in Bristol, the best time to plan ducted cooling is before the plasterers arrive. South West summers are milder on the coast, but sheltered towns and south-facing rooms still overheat, and efficient winter heating matters just as much.
Prices in Bristol
In South West England, our guide range for ducted air conditioning is £5,450–£14,950 per system, including VAT. It sits near the middle of UK prices. Concealed pipework, access equipment for high walls and any electrical work are what push prices towards the upper figure. For reference, the Zoned option in Bristol (motorised dampers or two units for separate floors or room groups) usually comes to about £7,450–£10,950.
Single zone
One ducted unit serving two or three rooms from a loft or void.
Zoned
Motorised dampers or two units for separate floors or room groups.
Whole home
Multiple ducted units with linear slot diffusers and smart control.
Guide prices show VAT at 20%. HMRC treats most fixed air conditioners and air-to-air heat pumps installed in homes as energy-saving materials, zero-rated until 31 March 2027 when we supply and fit them. If your installation qualifies, your quote shows 0% VAT and a lower price. Servicing, repairs, cleaning and controls are charged at 20%.
Planning and permissions
Since 29 May 2025, England's permitted development rules allow larger outdoor units (up to 1.5 m³) and no longer require a 1 m gap to the boundary, provided the MCS 020(a) noise check is met. Listed buildings and pitched-roof installs still need permission.
The survey
The free survey is where the real price is set: room measurements, pipe and drain routes, electrical checks and the outdoor unit position, all written into your quote. A survey in Bristol usually takes one to two hours. We measure the rooms, check the walls and the consumer unit, agree the outdoor unit position with you and photograph the pipe routes.
What is included
Included with ducted air conditioning across Bristol:
- Access hatch and condensate route planned in
- Free survey with ceiling-void and loft inspection
- Concealed fan unit and outdoor unit sized to the zone
- Insulated ductwork, plenums and grilles
- Commissioning with airflow balancing per grille
- Wall controller or app control
Towns in Bristol
Pick your town for local details, or see every service in Bristol.