With the Government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are likely to play a significant role for homeowners and businesses. Here’s what you need to know. Ground source heat pumps take heat from the ground and use it to provide heating and hot water.
Pipes, which are buried in either horizontal trenches or vertical boreholes, absorb heat from the earth. The heat is then compressed and transferred to the heating system. Because the ground maintains a stable temperature, even during winter, ground source heat pumps are a reliable source of renewable energy.
GSHPs: the benefits
Aside from reducing your carbon footprint, ground source heat pumps are hugely efficient, producing up to four times as much energy as they consume. This means reduced energy bills, so they should more than pay for themselves over their twenty-year lifespan. There are also some government initiatives to encourage homeowners and businesses to take the leap to sustainable solutions, making them even more cost effective.
What you need to know
Before you commit to a ground source heat pump, there are a few things that you should know. As can be expected, GSHPs aren’t cheap, and can cost anything between £10,000 and £25,000, depending on the size of the home you want to heat and the complexity of the installation. You’ll also need to find out if your home is suitable for a GHSP – while borehole installation means that they can now be installed in properties with smaller gardens, some outdoor space is still needed.
If you are considering getting a ground source heat pump, it’s worth checking your insulation first, so that you can make sure that your home is as efficient at retaining heat as producing it. And finally, you will need to consider any planning permissions that may be required. Most ground source heat pump installations are classified as permitted developments, but if you are considering one for a large property or your property is listed, you may need to get permission; check before you start.
With the government’s commitment to reach Net Zero by 2050, sustainable solutions are becoming increasingly popular. The great news for property owners is that this should also mean that they will keep getting more accessible, with prices dropping as more choice becomes available. GSHPs, good insulation, and solar panels will help you to save money now, but they’ll also help you to sell your home in the future. If you’re looking to make a wise investment for you and the environment, get in touch with a local, trusted ground source heat pump specialist and ask for a free consultation. There are plenty of companies out there who are trying to gain from government awards schemes, so make sure that you choose a provider that is trusted and rated, or comes recommended to you. For more tips, follow Trust A Trader on Facebook or Twitter.