The UK government have plans to decarbonise residential heating systems across the country, with aims to replace boilers with new, low-carbon ground source heat pumps through a Boiler Upgrade Scheme. This is with the aim to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Did you know that 75% of carbon emissions from buildings comes from heating alone? Considering that buildings contribute to 20% of all UK emissions, this means that heating the country adds up to over 15% of the UK’s total carbon footprint. If we can reduce this significant proportion, we will definitely be on track to achieving our nationwide goals.
How much money can I save?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme involves funding for 90,000 boiler replacements, equating to £5,000 per grant. This means the cost of installing a ground source heat pump is similar to the cost of a traditional boiler. With the additional incentive of saving money on energy costs, you would be saving a lot of money in the long run with a heat pump. This is especially true in the current climate with the dramatic increase in energy costs.
It is also worth noting that if you ever wish to move to a new house, then having a ground source heat pump on the property is very desirable. It has been found that a GSHP can improve your EPC rating, resulting in your house value increasing by over £16,000!
How do ground source heat pumps work?
Initially, boreholes are drilled, and loops of piping are installed underground. Heat-carrying fluid is then circulated through the piping system, transferring the absorbed heat from the ground to a heat exchanger. This is used to provide heat energy back up to the property in a practical, useable form.
The number of boreholes required depends on the size of the property that requires the heating. In addition, a survey will be carried out to determine the underlying geology as different types of soil and rock transfer heat energy more efficiently than others.
Are there any other benefits of ground source heat pumps?
Not only are ground source heat pumps a cheaper alternative to domestic boilers in the long-term, but they also have a number of other benefits, including:
- They use renewable energy, which means you’re helping to create a more sustainable planet for our future generations.
- Aside from an annual check, GSHPs require minimal maintenance work.
- GSHPs are very quiet to run – you will barely notice it at all!
- You will be provided with a plentiful supply of hot water for your home, let alone heating.
- Using geothermal energy instead of oil, gas or electricity, means you mitigate some of the biggest financial drains involved with running your home.
- There are financial incentives through government and payment schemes, including the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).
Contact Borehole Solutions
Renewable energy sources are only going to rise in popularity moving forward as society is becoming keener on greener living. If you’re thinking about installing a ground source heat pump (GSHP), the benefits of using a professional contractor far outweigh the risks of cutting corners. At Borehole Solutions, we have over two decades of experience with installing GSHPs, meaning you can be rest assured that your project is in safe hands! Give us a call on 01733 200501, click here, or send us an email to info@boreholesolutions.com if you would like to learn more about our geotechnical services.
