Ground Source Heat Pump Systems

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Ground source heat pumps use a buried ground loop which transfers heat from the ground into a building to provide space heating and, in some cases, to pre-heat domestic hot water.

The benefits

The efficiency of a ground source heat pump system is measured by the coefficient of performance (CoP). This is the ratio of units of heat output for each unit of electricity used to drive the compressor and pump for the ground loop. Average CoP over the year, known as seasonal efficiency, is around 3-4 although some systems may produce a greater rate of efficiency. This means that for every unit of electricity used to pump the heat, 3-4 units of heat are produced, making it an efficient way of heating a building. If grid electricity is used for the compressor and pump, then you should consult a range of energy suppliers to benefit from the lowest running costs, for example by choosing an economy 10 or economy 7 tariff.

How it works

There are three important elements to a ground source heat pump:

1. The ground loop

This is comprised of lengths of pipe buried in the ground, either in a borehole or a horizontal trench. The pipe is usually a closed circuit and is filled with a mixture of water and antifreeze, which is pumped around the pipe absorbing heat from the ground. The ground loop can be:

  • Vertical, for use in boreholes
  • Horizontal, for use in trenches
  • Spiral, coil or 'slinky', also for use in trenches
Ground loops Vertical boreholes

2. A heat pump

In the same way that your fridge uses refrigerant to extract heat from the inside, keeping your food cool, a ground source heat pump extracts heat from the ground, and uses it to heat your home. A ground source heat pump has three main parts:

  • The evaporator, (e.g. the squiggly thing in the cold part of your fridge) absorbs the heat using the liquid in the ground loop;
  • The compressor, (this is what makes the noise in a fridge) moves the refrigerant round the heat pump and compresses the gaseous refrigerant to the temperature needed for the heat distribution circuit;
  • The condenser, (the hot part at the back of your fridge) gives up heat to a hot water tank which feeds the distribution system.

3. Heat distribution system

This consists of under floor heating or radiators for space heating and in some cases water storage for hot water supply.

Is it suitable for my home?

You should consider the following issues if you're thinking about installing a ground source heat pump. An accredited installer will be able to provide more detailed advice.

  • You will need space outside your house for the ground loop.
  • The ground will need to be suitable for digging a trench or borehole.
  • What fuel is being replaced? If it's electricity, oil, LPG or coal the savings will be more favourable than gas. Heat pumps are a good option where gas is unavailable.
  • The type of heat distribution system. Ground source heat pumps can be combined with radiators but these will normally be larger than with standard boiler systems. Under floor heating is better as it works at a lower temperature.
  • Want to further reduce your home's carbon dioxide emissions? Install solar PV or some other form of renewable electricity generating system to power the compressor and pump.
  • Is the system for a new building development? Combining the installation with other building works can reduce costs.
  • Have you installed insulation measures? Wall, floor and loft insulation will lower your heat demand and make the system more effective.

Additional Resources

Alpha - Innotech Heat Pumps "Warmth and comfort" product brochure: http://www.alpha-innotec.com/uploads/Image_engl_A_062_07_Druckdatei.pdf.

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