Ground Source Heat Pumps

Fully Certified Renewable Installer

Providing confidence in home-grown energy

Ground Source Heat Pumps operate by circulating a mixture of water and antifreeze through a loop of pipes buried in the ground. This mixture absorbs the natural heat from the ground, which is then compressed and used to heat your property.

In the summer, the process can be reversed to provide cooling. The consistent temperature of the ground ensures that GSHPs deliver reliable performance throughout the year, making them one of the most efficient heating and cooling solutions available.

At Greenfields, we understand that every property is unique, which is why we offer several types of ground source heat pump systems to suit different needs:

Boreholes

  • High efficiency due to stable underground temperatures.
  • Ideal for properties with limited land but sufficient depth.
  • Requires professional drilling, with Greenfields ensuring cost-effective and precise execution through partnerships with top drilling contractors.

Closed-Loop Systems

  • Suitable for properties with adequate land space.
  • Utilises long pipes buried horizontally or vertically, depending on land availability.
  • Offers consistent heat extraction with minimal disruption to the landscape.

Open-Loop Systems

  • Most efficient for large-scale commercial applications.
  • Ideal for properties near substantial water sources like lakes or rivers.
  • Requires specific site conditions but offers unmatched energy efficiency.

Slinkies

  • While sometimes recommended, Greenfields prefers the above options due to the risk of freezing and the challenges associated with repairing frozen ground.

Ground Source Heat Pumps are ideal for properties with sufficient outdoor space for ground loops, such as large residential homes, office buildings, schools, and industrial facilities. They are particularly well-suited for projects where long-term efficiency and sustainability are priorities. Whether it’s a new build or a retrofit, GSHPs can be customised to meet the specific needs of your property.

Selecting the right type of ground source system is crucial to ensuring optimal performance and cost savings. At Greenfields, our team conducts thorough site assessments and consultations to help you choose the system that best fits your property’s specific requirements. We take into account factors such as available space, soil type, and energy needs to design a system that maximises efficiency and long-term value.

A well-designed ground source heat pump system can significantly reduce energy bills, especially when compared to traditional off-grid heating alternatives. When run efficiently at around 40ºC, GSHPs can produce four to five times as much energy as they consume (Coefficient of Performance, or CoP). 

This makes them a cost-effective option even when considering the lower upfront cost of gas or oil systems. Additionally, ground source heat pumps are covered by the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), offering some of the best returns on renewable energy investments.

Compared to gas or oil heating systems, GSHPs offer substantial savings over time, making them a cost-effective choice despite the initial investment.

Ground Source Heat Pumps aren’t just for heating. Greenfields has installed some of the largest heating and cooling systems in the UK, utilising both passive and active cooling methods. Passive cooling reverses the operation of the collector field to cool the building while replenishing the ground. Active cooling, meanwhile, uses a cooling vessel to cool and heat simultaneously, delivering excellent CoPs, significant fuel savings, and reduced carbon emissions.

A quotation can be produced from a current Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). A detailed site survey will be completed to verify the system specification if acceptable.

Do you have space for a ground loop array? As a general guide, you will need three times the footprint of your property. For boreholes, you need to be at least 7 metres from any building and 9 metres apart from other boreholes.

In older properties with low insulation levels, the radiators may need to run at higher temperatures, affecting the heat pump’s efficiency. Greenfields has extensive experience retrofitting GSHP systems in all types of buildings and can recommend remedial works if necessary to optimise efficiency.

Our team at Greenfields will guide you through these considerations during our detailed site assessment, ensuring the best possible system design for your property.

How much space is required for a Ground Source Heat Pump system?

The space required depends on the type of ground loop system (horizontal or vertical) and the size of your property. Horizontal loops require more land area, while vertical loops can be installed in smaller spaces.

What maintenance is required for a Ground Source Heat Pump?

GSHPs require minimal maintenance. Regular checks on the heat pump unit and the ground loop system will ensure efficient operation, with most systems requiring only an annual service.

Can a Ground Source Heat Pump provide both heating and cooling?

Yes, GSHPs can reverse the heat transfer process to provide heating in the winter and cooling in the summer.

What are the running costs compared to traditional heating systems?

GSHPs typically have lower running costs than traditional heating systems because they use renewable energy from the ground, significantly reducing energy bills.

Are Ground Source Heat Pumps suitable for both new builds and existing properties?

Yes, GSHPs can be installed in both new builds and existing properties. However, the design and installation process may vary depending on the property’s specific requirements.

Can Greenfields help me understand which solution is appropriate for my property?

Absolutely. Our team conducts thorough site assessments and consultations to help you choose the best system for your property, ensuring it meets your specific needs and maximises efficiency.

Our reputation is built on word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied customers. See why Greenfields is trusted for high-quality installations and exceptional service.