Ground Source Heat Pumps
Looking for a more efficient alternative to traditional heating systems? By leveraging geothermal energy, ground source heat pumps deliver consistent heating and hot water year-round.
How Does It Work?
A ground source heat pump uses the earth’s constant temperature to provide heat and hot water efficiently.
These systems, which can be powered by standard electricity and potentially supplemented with solar power, tap into the ground’s heat through two main types of setups: open-loop systems directly use groundwater, while closed-loop systems circulate fluid in pipes buried in the ground.
There are two kinds of closed-loop systems: those with pipes laid out horizontally in a shallow trench, and those with pipes inserted into deep vertical boreholes. This technology not only reduces your carbon footprint but can also lower your energy costs, making it an increasingly popular choice for sustainable living.
What Are The Benefits?
- Energy Efficient: Heat pumps are significantly more efficient than gas boilers, achieving over 400% efficiency by generating around four units of heat for every unit of electricity used.
- Performance in Cold: Heat pumps can extract heat even at temperatures as low as -20°C.
- Heating and Cooling: Unlike traditional boilers, heat pumps can also cool your home.
- Low Maintenance: They require minimal upkeep beyond an annual service check, with no need for fuel deliveries.
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs) vs. Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs)
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs) and Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) are both smart choices for heating your home, but they work a bit differently. While both systems use natural sources (the ground or air), the ground’s temperature remains more consistently stable throughout the year than the air temperature does. This stability results in more predictable energy usage and helps mitigate unexpected energy cost spikes, making GSHPs a more reliable choice for consistent home heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
For horizontal systems you’ll need at least three times your home’s total floor area.
For vertical boreholes you can allocate less space, but the distance from buildings is an important consideration.
Generally not, except if it exceeds 0.5 hectares or for listed buildings.
Yes, they are an ideal match due to providing consistent, low-level heat.
Yes, MCS-compliant installations may receive a £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme subsidy.
No, they operate almost silently due to their underground components.
A ground source heat pump extracts heat from the ground using buried pipes to provide energy-efficient heating and hot water for your home. The system operates year-round, even during cold weather, by utilising the constant temperature of the earth.
There are two types of installations: horizontal and vertical. Horizontal systems require a large surface area—about three times the floor space of your home. Vertical boreholes require less surface area but may need deeper drilling.
Ground source heat pumps are highly efficient, often achieving efficiencies of 300-400%. This means for every unit of electricity used, you can get up to four units of heat, making them far more efficient than conventional gas or oil boilers.
The heat pump unit itself can last for 20 to 25 years, while the ground loop, which is buried underground, can last up to 100 years. Regular maintenance ensures long-term reliability and efficiency.
Yes, through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), you can receive a grant of up to £7,500 to support the cost of installing a ground source heat pump, making it more affordable.
For advice or guidance on the benefits heat pumps can provide UK businesses and homeowners with get in touch today. Call 01473 798321 and we will make the whole process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
