Domestic Heat Pumps

Your domestic property will use either a ground or air source heat pump. Ground based systems need a trench dug in order to collect the heat from the ground. A loop is then buried in the soil, and can require a lot of space, typically around 100-200 metres.

For those domestic properties that do not have this type of space, a borehole method is used, though this can be the more expensive option. This type of heat source installation only requires around 80-100 metres for a typical installation. It is not always required that there is a single borehole, and multiple shallow versions can be drilled which totals 100 metres.

Many domestic properties may not enjoy the space needed for a typical ground source heat pump, and in this case can install an air source system. Air source heat pumps do not need any ground work whatsoever so is generally available for more types of properties. Typically, air source heat pumps cost less to install though their efficiency tends to lower than their ground source equivalents.

When installing a domestic ground source heat pump bear in mind there will be some disruption to your garden, though over time it will return to its original appearance. Once the installation is complete, the ground loop will not need excavated and require minimal maintenance.

Ground and air source heat pumps need a surge of electricity to start, so ensure your electrical supply is strong enough to maintain the stream. All our MCS accredited installers will be able to advise you on this and many systems now operate on “soft start” alternative which limits the need of the high initial electrical current. Ground and air source heat pumps are always connected to their own circuit breaker in the fuse board.