Climate change and the prospects of renewable energy have reached the spotlight in recent times. Every industry is trying to implement more sustainable practices where possible, and the geotechnical sector is no exception. As a result of this, a couple of the revolutionary geotechnical methods to emerge are geothermal drilling and ground source heat pumps (GSHP).
There are two forms of geothermal drilling available: huge geothermal plants for large-scale projects, as well as GSHPs for those smaller-scale jobs. Regardless of the scale, there are a vast number of benefits for geothermal drilling services.
What is Geothermal Energy?
Geothermal energy is a source of renewable energy that has the capability to provide clean power every second, of every day. This is in contrast to the alternatives, such as solar power and wind power, which heavily rely on the weather conditions. Geothermal exploitation can be trusted regardless of the current climate.
Harnessing geothermal energy is relatively easy, and there are numerous applications once it has been done. Heat production can utilise geothermal energy by using direct heat exchange technology or heating pumps. It can also be expended for power production in the form of steam turbines. In terms of practical applications, geothermal energy can be used for both domestic and urban heating, as well as for the generation of electricity for both national and personal purposes.
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP)
GSHPs are designed to harness the earth’s geothermal potential at depths of up to 250 metres! The heat pumps are used for domestic purposes, such as supplying power to a house. This differs from the typical perception of geothermal drilling, which provides a huge continuous reservoir of energy for the nation and corporate applications. GSHPs are simple and a great investment to help keep your property warm this coming winter.
Another difference is that the harnessed heat energy by the GSHP is accrued by both geothermal and solar gain, with the ground being heated by both the sun’s energy, as well as from the rock itself. This means that GSHP installation is not only a geothermal process. Heat pumps can be installed via either borehole systems, or ground arrays, depending on the space available.
How do Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) Work?
Geothermal borehole drilling contractors are required to carry out the installation process. Once the ground is excavated and boreholes have been drilled, loops of piping are installed. Through these pipes, heat-carrying fluid or refrigerant is circulated, transferring absorbed heat back up to the surface.
Typically, the refrigerant used within ground source heat pumps (GSHP) is R410-A, which is often used in air conditioning units. The number of boreholes or length of trenching dug is dependent on the size of the property that is being supplied by the heating. Additionally, the property’s underlying geology is also a factor that needs considering, as some rocks and soils transfer heat more efficiently than others.
What are the Benefits?
- GSHPs are consistent and reliable, with minimal maintenance required once they have been installed.
- They are considerably cheaper to run than oil, gas or electricity; meaning you can mitigate some of the largest financial drains facing your home.
- GSHPs utilise renewable energy, which means you are helping the sustainability of the planet. The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) is one financial benefit from the government incentives and payment schemes, purely due to the fact that you are using a renewable energy source.
- Geothermal source heat pumps (GSHP) are remarkably quiet, meaning you will barely notice them.
- The heat pumps provide plentiful hot water for your home, as well as covers your home’s heating requirements.
With the increasing social commitment to sustainable living, ground source heat pumps (GSHP) are going to grow in popularity moving forward. It is crucial to work with a professional contractor of geothermal services to install your heat pump. At Borehole Solutions, we maintain the highest standards as well as comply with all industry regulations to guarantee a correctly installed GSHP for your property. If you would like to find out more about any of our geothermal drilling services, then get in touch! Contact Borehole Solutions today on 01733 200 501.
