Ground Source Heat Pumps

Ground source heat pumps also known as GSHP work by absorbing the heat from the ground.

A system of flexible pipes (a ground loop) are buried underground, a fluid is pumped around through the loop of pipes and absorbs the low grade heat from the ground. The fluid is passed through a compressor which raises it to a higher temperature that is used to warm water for underfloor heating systems, or stored in a conventional hot water cylinder or thermal store.

The cooled fluid passes back into the ground where it absorbs heat from the ground in a constant process while heating is needed. The ground loop is sized according to the size and heating needs of your home. The longer the loop the more heat is generated.

A trench of about 2 metres deep is dug and the loop laid flat or coiled at the bottom and covered with earth. Where there is insufficient ground area available for a horizontal ground loop there is also an option to install vertical loops with boreholes.

Ground source heat pumps are an ideal way of providing heat throughout the year as the ground stays at a constant temperature.

As with all heat pumps they have some impact on the environment as they need electricity to run however they produce 3-5 times more renewable energy than the electricity that they use.

The Cost of a Ground Source Heat Pump

Ground Source Heat Pump Systems can cost anything from £10,000 upwards. This is for a fully installed system including ground works.

The cost will also depend on the size of the building and your heating requirements. Sizes range from 6-16kw on single phase electrical supply and on a three phase supply you can do much more.