Eco heating

Ground Source Heat Pumps

What is ground source heat pump?

A Ground Source Heat Pump creates energy by pumping water through pipes buried beneath the ground. The water warmed by the ground then passes through the pump which increases its temperature to a suitable level used for hot water and heating.

Like a traditional boiler the hot water can be pumped through underfloor heating pipes or radiators to heat property, and natural hot water to your taps. A ground source works at a ratio of around 4 kw of heat for every 1 kw of electric used

The benefits of a ground source heat pump

Lowers fuel bills in comparison to conventional heating methods
Income from the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) Scheme
Lower carbon footprint
No piped gas or oil tank required
Heats your property and your water
Low maintenance

How does a ground source heat pump work?

The heating system functions in a similar way to an underfloor heating system. The collector loop is placed under the ground, or if this is not possible, a borehole will be drilled and a vertical pipe installed. A combination of antifreeze and water is then placed into the underground system and as it does so, it will take on the temperature of the surrounding ground.

The temperature that is pumped into the system will remain consistent throughout the year which is why ground source heat pumps are such an efficient way to heat your home. The liquid will then arrive back at the heat pump where it passes through a heat exchanger. On the other side of this will be a refrigerant which will boil the liquid to form a gas. This gas is then pushed back down with a compressor and energy is released.

The energy then passes to a thermal store which results in the water becoming hotter. The combination of the four different elements continues to release energy so that they can heat your home either through radiators or hot water.

The system can be easily controlled for both your heating and hot water making it an effective, efficient and economical source of heating for your home.

Note: The heat pump still requires an electricity supply to pump the water

Do you need planning permission?

Ground source heat pump or water source heat pumps don’t usually require planning permission as an installation of one is considered as a permitted development which means it doesn’t require an application for planning permission. If you live in a listed building or a conservation area, we recommend you contact your council to check on local requirements. You must contact your electrical provider.

Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)

The Energy Savings Trust found in 2015 typical savings of £410 to £595 per year when replacing gas heating and £830 to £1,465 per year when replacing electric immersion heating. Ground Source Heat Pumps qualify for the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) Programme and a typical house in England, Scotland or Wales could receive between £2,610 to £3,940 a year.

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