Ground Source Heat Pump

Did you know that your premises are sitting on a natural resource that could reduce your heating bills and generate extra income? Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs) are an attractive option for business and homes with well-insulated premises or which is planning renovations. Typically, you will be looking at a 12 per cent Return On Investment (ROI) year on year for the lifespan of the heat pump.

Ground Source Heat Pumps FAQs

How do they work?

GSHPs extract heat from the ground by circulating a mixture of water and antifreeze around a ground loop. Heat from the ground is absorbed into the fluid and then passes through a heat exchanger into the heat pump which then converts it into high-temperature heat. Trenches are usually between one and two metres deep and boreholes between 15-100m, depending on energy needs.

Heat pumps can then be used for radiators, underfloor or warm air heating systems and hot water.

Is my property suitable?

Since GSHPs work best when producing heat at a lower temperature than traditional boilers, it is essential that your property is well insulated and draught-proofed for the heating system to be effective.
Trenches would be required for the ground loop. The length of the required ground loop depends on the size of your property and the amount of heat you need. If space is limited, a vertical borehole can be drilled instead. We can assess your premises and advise you as to the best option.

Will I save money?

GSHPs boast efficiencies of up to six times that of gas or oil boilers. They produce water at a lower temperature than boilers (55°C). Less cold water needs adding to baths or showers, which saves both money and energy.

What is the Renewable Heat Incentive?

The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) is a Government incentive scheme to encourage the uptake of renewable heat technology among businesses and homeowners.

The Non-domestic RHI was launched first in November 2011 to provide payments to industry, businesses and public sector organisations. The Domestic RHI was launched in April 2014, and is open to homeowners, private landlords, social landlords and self-builders.

What could I earn?

RHI cash payments are made quarterly over the applicable term of the scheme. The amount you receive will depend on a number of factors – including the technology you install and the latest tariffs available for each technology.

Is the pump noisy?

The noise of a typical heat pump is similar to that of a refrigerator. All of our heat pumps are fitted with noise reduction systems. Pumps are best fitted in utility rooms, basements or garages.

What happens in winter?

The ground temperature stays relatively consistent under the surface, even in the depths of winter, so the system works all year round.

How reliable is the technology?

Pure Renewables offers guarantees of up to seven years and the system life expectancy can be up to 30 years, with regularly scheduled maintenance. They need very little adjustment as they use “fit and forget technology.” Their efficiencies do not decline over time unlike with a gas or oil boiler.

Do I need planning permission?

They may be considered as Permitted Development, in which case you will not need planning permission, but it is always a good idea to check with your local planning office and to obtain written confirmation regardless of whether it is permitted.