Ground source heat pumps are fully electric heating solutions for homes. They absorb low-grade energy from the ground and compress it into high-grade, useable heat. The heat is then delivered through a distribution system, such as radiators or underfloor heating, for reliable heating and hot water through the seasons. 

A typical system consists of an indoor appliance – the heat pump – that is usually located in a storage or utility space. The pump is connected to an outdoor ground array – a long loop of fluid-filled plastic pipe buried in the ground – and the indoor heating system.  

A liquid is pumped through the system and as heat naturally flows from warmer to cooler places, it is constantly warmed by the ground’s low-grade heat. The energy absorbed from the ground heats the liquid and turns it into a gas which is further heated through a compressor. The hot gas then flows into a condenser that delivers the homes hot water needs. The gas then reverts to a liquid and the cycle begins again. 

These heat pumps are fitted inside your home and housed in a storage or utility space, much like a traditional gas boiler. The units can be stand alone or be combined with your hot water tank and vary in size, up to approximately the dimensions of a fridge freezer. The outdoor portion of the technology is installed underground.

Maintenance is no different to having a boiler – routine maintenance, usually once a year, must be carried out to ensure longevity and efficient operation of the unit.  

It’s recommended that as well as complying with warranty requirements, a maintenance/service package is considered. It is important that maintenance is always carried out by an authorised installer or service agent. 

Fully maintained and serviced, a ground source heat pump has a lifespan of between 15-25 years, whereas gas boilers typically last between 10-15 years.  

Ground source heat pumps are an extremely energy efficient heating technology. The system is dependent on the temperature in the ground, which is typically around 10˚C in the UK, regardless of ambient conditions. This minimal variation gives ground source heat pumps a high seasonal and cold day efficiency. 

A ground source heat pump runs at an efficiency rate of between 300-500%, meaning for every 1kW you put in of electricity you generate 3-5kW of heat energy for your home, while a gas system which operates at 85% efficiency, 1kW of energy is needed to generate 0.85kW of heat. 

A ground source heat pump can reduce the lifetime operational carbon emissions of a medium-sized home by around 85% or more; that’s equivalent to driving about 375,000 miles in an average car, or driving 15 times round the earth. It in turn reduces your own annual carbon footprint by 20% straightaway.  

Further, there are variable electricity tariffs on the market that can be better suited to heat pump users. These tariffs offer lower electricity prices during times of low electricity demand; this can make running your heat pump cheaper than a standard electricity tariff.

Ground source heat pumps that are running correctly and maintained, emit 27-60 decibels, which is only slightly higher than a low library whisper or a fridge.  

Inside the home, there will be even less noise compared to a gas boiler and less creaking of pipes and radiators throughout the system due to lower temperature differentials. 

Yes. They can operate effectively at -15°C, although their efficiency can drop slightly in very cold weather. 

Ground source heat pumps also have the advantage of having a much more stable ambient temperature source in the ground. No matter the time of year this should stay at around 10°C. 

The system works no differently to the traditional gas boiler way of heating your hot water with a cylinder – ground source heat pumps are capable of providing hot water up to 65°C. 

Whilst it is not possible to run a ground source heat pump directly from solar/PV panels, it is possible to run the heat pump from battery power stored from solar/PV electricity generated.

A storage battery would be needed for this and may be available as an added extra to some homes (please speak to the development Sales Consultant for more information).