What are ground source heat pumps and how do they work?

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) use pipes which are buried in your garden to extract heat from the ground, generated by both sunlight and rainfall. The ground stays at a fairly constant temperature under the surface, so the heat pump can be used all year round. 

A ground source heat pump is electrically driven and utilises a refrigerant cycle, similar to an air source heat pump but extracting heat from the ground. This heat is absorbed at low temperatures into a fluid inside specially installed pipes buried underground. The fluid then passes through a compressor which raises it to a higher temperature, ready to be delivered to your heating and hot water systems. 

Ground source heat pumps offer the highest efficiency of all heating systems.


What are the advantages of ground source heat pumps?

  • Running costs – Ground source heat pumps are electrically driven which allows them to provide highly predictable running costs and avoid the need for deliveries of fuel with volatile and unpredictable pricing 

  • Environmental Impact – Our expertly designed systems can offer significant reductions in your carbon dioxide emissions

  • Reliability – Ground source heat pumps are among the most reliable of heating systems and require minimal maintenance

If a ground source heat pump is not suitable for your property we can also advise across the range of renewable heating systems and technologies available, including air source heat pump, solar PV and solar thermal, to find the most suitable system for your home.


Financial incentives 

You may be eligible for a grant of £7,500 through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (launched 1st April 2022). This one off payment can support you with the upfront costs of installation.

Check if you may be eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

Additionally, from the 1st April 2022 for a period of 5 years, VAT is zero rated on heat pumps.


FAQ

+ Is a Ground Source Heat Pump suitable for my property?

It is a common misconception that ground source heating is only suitable for new, well insulated, buildings. In fact, a well designed and installed system can act as a highly efficient heat source for nearly all commercial and domestic properties.

Whilst ground array pipes are usually installed horizontally in trenches, the process can also be performed vertically using deep bore holes – if space is at a premium. This flexibility means that there are very few properties where ground source heat pump installation is not a viable option when the internal heating system can be updated.

+ How much does it cost to install a Ground Source Heat Pump?

The overall cost will depend on the size and the area they are installed on. However, when thinking about heat pumps, the savings to your energy bills is an important factor. Our team can advise on the potential running costs and savings of your system based on your unique circumstances -please do [get in touch][1] to discuss your project in more detail. [1]: /contact-us


Our Installations


Expert advice on the right solution for you 

Total Renewable Solutions are an MCS accredited supplier and installer of renewable energy solutions. Our expert surveyors will work with you to create a bespoke system that is right for your property and budget and will advise on the potential running costs and savings of your system based on your unique circumstances.