Ducted air conditioning across Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles
Ducted systems suit Stornoway loft conversions and new extensions where ceilings are being boarded anyway. For a renovation in Stornoway, the best time to plan ducted cooling is before the plasterers arrive. Wind and salt air in the north of Scotland mean outdoor unit placement and protection need extra thought.
Prices in Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles
Budget around £4,845–£13,295 per system including VAT for ducted air conditioning in and around Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles. The biggest variables are the pipe route, access for the outdoor unit and the state of the consumer unit, all of which the survey settles. For reference, the Zoned option in Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles (motorised dampers or two units for separate floors or room groups) usually comes to about £6,645–£9,745. Travel, ferry or accommodation costs are not in these figures; they are quoted as a fixed amount in writing before you book.
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
Scotland has its own permitted development rules for heat pumps and outdoor units, with stricter treatment of listed buildings and conservation areas. We check the current position for your property with you and, if needed, with the council.
The survey
Where travel is involved, we agree the survey arrangements and any travel cost up front. On the day, the engineer measures the rooms, checks the electrics and agrees the outdoor unit position with you. Surveys in Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles are arranged around travel. We confirm the date and any travel, ferry or accommodation cost in writing before you commit, then the survey covers rooms, pipe routes, electrics and noise as normal.
What is included
Included with ducted air conditioning across Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles:
- Access hatch and condensate route planned in
- Wall controller or app control
- Insulated ductwork, plenums and grilles
- Concealed fan unit and outdoor unit sized to the zone
- Survey by arrangement with ceiling-void and loft inspection
- Commissioning with airflow balancing per grille
Towns in Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles
Pick your town for local details, or see every service in Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles.