Ground Source Heat Pumps

Ground source heat pumps are heat generating systems that take heat stored in the surface of the earth for use in space and water heating systems. Heat pumps can be used in combination with radiators or underfloor heating systems and can provide domestic hot water. The heat is transferred from the ground to the heating system by circulating a fluid, usually a mixture of water and antifreeze, around a loop of pipe buried in the ground.Ground source heat pumps offer a number of benefits, including lower carbon emissions, reduced fuel bills, a cost-effective off-gas grid alternative to oil, solid fuel or electric radiators. Heat pumps powered by a renewable energy source are completely renewable, and are a good source of renewable heat. Interest in this technology has grown in the UK over the past decade.This guidance provides detailed information for those who wish to use ground source heat pumps in building projects. It provides design, installation, operation and maintenance information as well as giving guidance on the regulatory requirements relating to heat pumps.It has been prepared by a small team with a long involvement with the technology, and offers designers, installers and operators a valuable source of information.