Understanding Ground Source Heat Pumps
A ground source heat pump (GSHP) is an innovative but simple renewable energy solution that taps into the earth's consistent underground temperature - fed by the sun - to provide efficient heating, cooling, and hot water for your home or business.
Why Choose GSHP for District Heating Networks?
How Does a Ground Source Heat Pump Work?
GSHPs use a heat exchanger to transfer solar energy in the form of heat between the ground and a building.
Core Components of a GSHP System
Each GSHP system has three main parts: a ground loop to exchange heat with the ground, a heat pump to transfer the heat at more usable temperatures, and a distribution system (like ducts, radiators, or radiant flooring) to deliver the heat throughout a space
System Configurations to Suit Your Space
GSHPs can adapt to various locations with different configurations: vertical boreholes for compact spaces, horizontal trenches for larger areas, and even submerged systems in water sources.
Benefits of Ground Source Heat Pumps
Installing a GSHP requires an initial investment, but the rewards are lasting. With significantly lower operating costs, GSHPs can dramatically reduce energy bills, offering savings year after year. Their simple design, with few moving parts and a durable underground system, ensures reliability and minimal maintenance. By tapping into the earth’s stable temperature, GSHPs deliver efficient heating and cooling with zero onsite emissions, helping organisations and the construction industry meet sustainability standards and transition from gas-burning boilers.
Types of Ground Source Heat Pump Systems
Ground source heat pumps come in three main configurations: closed loop, open loop, and hybrid systems. Each system offers unique benefits depending on the building’s needs and site conditions.
Closed Loop Systems
A closed network of pipes circulates an antifreeze solution underground or submerged in water, absorbing stable ground temperatures for efficient heating and cooling.
Open Loop Systems
Utilises groundwater from an aquifer to exchange heat before returning the water underground.
Hybrid Systems
Combines closed or open loop systems with other renewable technologies like solar thermal, CHP, or PVT panels.
How we can help you in the early stages
We deliver a high level geology study and analysis to support initial commercial and strategic planning for district heating. The goal is to determine whether pursuing GSHPs is worth further investment and detailed analysis.
Evaluation
This initial assessment evaluates whether GSHPs are a viable option for a given site at a high level.
Assessment
It includes preliminary data collection, such as soil types, basic site conditions, and approximate energy needs.
FAQs
A ground source heat pump (GSHP) is a heating and/or cooling system that utilises the stable temperature of the ground to transfer and store heat. It works by extracting heat from the ground during the winter and depositing heat back into the ground during the summer. It provides both heating and cooling efficiently.
GSHPs work by transferring heat between a building and the ground through a buried heat exchanger. In heating mode, they extract heat from the ground and deliver it to the building. In cooling mode, they remove heat from the building and reject it into the ground.
High energy efficiency, lower operating costs, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and no onsite emissions, long lifespan, and the ability to provide both heating and cooling.
Yes, they are the most efficient form of heating and cooling on the planet, operating at around 400% efficiency.For comparison, a traditional gas boiler is around 85% efficient, Air Source Heat Pump’s (ASHP) operate at approximately 200% efficiency.
Yes, GSHPs can be used in both residential and commercial buildings of various sizes and in district heat networks heating multiple buildings from one ground source system.
A well-maintained GSHP heat pump can last 20 to 25 years or more, with the ground loop lasting 100 plus years.