Ground source heat pumps are an investment not to be taken lightly. It’s important to look at the disadvantages as well as the advantages.
In this handy guide, we’ve broken down things to think about when looking to purchase a ground source heat pump.
Disadvantages of Installing Ground Source Heat Pumps
The upfront cost isn’t cheap
For most people, the initial cost of a ground source heat system is expensive. The cost of a ground source heat pump can be anywhere from £10,000 to £17,000, depending on the type you choose and your garden size.
Complicated to install
This isn’t the type of home renovation you can do yourself, it takes serious skill to plan and install ground source heat pumps (hence the price).
There’s a lot that could go wrong if not done correctly, that’s why it’s vital to hire experts like Green Energy 4 All to install them for you.
Advantages of Installing Ground Source Heat Pumps
The most efficient renewable heating source
Ground source heat pumps are actually the most efficient energy source out there in the market today.
They are even more efficient than air source heat pumps. Ground source has a very high CoP (Coefficient of Performance) because it generates all the heat released by the free heat energy in the ground. No constant electricity usage, no chemicals, just underground piping.
Cheaper to run in the long term
Probably the biggest advantages! Due to its immense efficiency, ground source heat pumps could save you hundreds of pounds every year.
Basing the cost of electricity at around 15p per kWh and the average efficiency of a ground source heat pump at 320% to 420%, yearly ground source heat pumps can cost anywhere between £540 and £700. Gas boilers usually run at approximately £850 per year.
Eligible for The Boiler Upgrade Scheme
To counteract the initial high cost of heat pumps, the government have introduced a new scheme that helps with the upfront cost of heat pumps.
Homeowners could get up to £5000 to go towards a ground source heat pump. For more information on the scheme, read our complete overview.
They are underground, so they won't spoil your garden
Many people are worried about the effect renewable heat sources will have on the look of their property or garden. But the installation of ground source heat pumps are well… in the ground!
At most, there is a medium-sized box attached to the side of your home. Whether you go for vertical or horizontal, everything else is underground.
Ground source heat pumps are an investment and must be installed by an expert. The financial gains and helping the environment are reasons enough to inquire about your heat pump.