Ground Source Heat Pumps

Ground source heat pumps provide a new and clean way of heating buildings in the UK. They make use of renewable energy stored in the ground, providing one of the most energy-efficient ways of heating buildings.  They are suitable for a wide variety of building types and are particularly appropriate for low environmental impact projects.

They do not require hot rocks (geothermal energy) and can be installed in most of the UK, using a borehole or shallow trenches or, less commonly, by extracting heat from a pond or lake.  Heat collecting pipes in a closed loop, containing water (with a little antifreeze) are used to extract this stored energy, which can then be used to provide space heating and domestic hot water.  In some applications, the pump can be reversed in summer to provide an element of cooling, but these systems are not currently eligible for UK grants.

The only energy used by Ground Source Heat Pump systems is electricity to power the pumps.  Typically, a Ground Source Heat Pump will deliver 3 or 4 times as much thermal energy (heat) as is used in electrical energy to drive the system.  For a particularly environmental solution, green electricity can be purchased.

Ground Source Heat Pump systems have been widely used in other parts of the world, including North America and Europe, for many years.  Typically they cost more to install than conventional systems; however, they have very low maintenance costs and can be expected to provide reliable and environmentally friendly heating for in excess of 20 years.

Ground Source Heat Pumps work best with heating systems which are optimised to run at a lower water temperature than is commonly used in UK boiler and radiator systems. As such, they make an ideal partner for underfloor heating systems.

Below is an drawing of a home with closed loops installed underground in the surrounding area.

Ground Source Heat Pumps offer financial savings over conventional heating methods and we will ensure that you gain the maximum benefit for your building. Ground Source Heat Pumps will significantly save on carbon emissions when compared with all other fossil fuels.

Access Renewables can offer Ground Source Heat Pumps solutions to domestic, commercial and public sectors. Our We provide systems from 4kW to 200kW and beyond. We offer a complete solution from handing your enquiry to installing and commissioning your Ground Source Heat Pump into your home or premises. Commercial customers will have the support of our projects team to ensure that Ground Source Heat Pumps element of you project is delivered on time.

Access Renewables provide systems from leading manufacturers using only tested, certified products. We install systems according to the Microgeneration Certification Scheme and in some cases we can access grants and interest-free loans.

For more information on the grants available, visit an area from the list above which most describes you. Alternatively, for help or assistance with planning a heat pump installation or to arrange a free quotation, simply complete our Quotation and Assistance form.

Some information from The Ground Source Heat Pump Association (www.gshp.org.uk)