Air-source heat pumps vs Ground-source heat pumps

If you've decided to put a heat pump in your home, you'll need to think about a lot of things before you can finish the job. 

Not only will you have to consider the expenses and benefits of installing a heat pump, but you'll also have to select between the two most frequent installation options. You'll have to determine whether you want an air or ground source heat pump installed in your property. So, here's a quick guide to assist you in making an educated decision. 

If you live in Maidstone or the neighbouring regions, such as Medway, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, or Ashford, call us on 07595 726546 for more information about heat pumps.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?   

Heat pumps, in their most basic form, absorb heat from a certain source and convert it to a liquid. 

This is then compressed even more to raise the temperature before the heat is transferred from the liquid to water, providing warmth to a building (either through radiators or underfloor heating). With this in mind, the primary distinction between air and ground source heat pumps is where the heat is drawn from. 

For example, air-source heat pumps take heat from the air, whereas ground source heat pumps extract heat from the ground.

This may have an impact on your final decision because not all properties are equipped to absorb and transfer heat from a ground source.

 Efficiency

Heat pumps do not burn fuel to produce heat and only require a small amount of electricity to operate when compared to the amount of heat produced. Heat pumps operate at between 300% to 400% efficiency meaning that you are bound to save on your monthly heating bills.

 Low carbon emissions 

Apart from the electricity used to operate heat pumps, there are no greenhouse gases produced by heat pumps meaning that you will be contributing to a greener planet when opting for a ground source heat pump. 

 No dangerous byproducts 

Unlike gas boilers, heat pumps do not have the potential to leak harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, resulting in a much safer heating system in your home. 

What about the costs? 

As can be seen, the technologies that underpin these heat pumps, as well as how they operate, are undoubtedly comparable. 

However, the same concept does not apply to the cost of these installations, with an air source heat pump costing between £6,000 and £8,000 on average. 

A ground source heat pump installation, on the other hand, can cost up to 100% more, with prices ranging from £10,000 to £18,000. This is mostly due to the cost of installing a ground loop on your property, which may or may not be feasible depending on its location.

While this is likely to be a major consideration in your decision, keep in mind that ground source heat pumps are more efficient at heating your home. This will result in significant energy savings over time, potentially allowing you to return the initial cost of installing your ground source heat pump after a set period of time. 

Based in Maidstone? Get in touch with us!

If you'd like a free quote on a new air source heat pump, or if you'd want us to service or repair your existing heat pump, please call us now. Please call us at 07595 726546 or send us an email using our contact form, whichever is more convenient for you. 

 We cover Maidstone and the neighbouring areas, including Medway, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, and Ashford. 

Check out our reviews page to see what some of our prior clients in the Maidstone area have to say about our services. 

Thank you for your time, and we hope to hear from you soon.