Ground Source Heat Pumps (part 2) 
The advantages are simple: there are no carbon emissions, no use of fossil fuels (the sun uses a nuclear fusion reaction to generate heat), they deliver a consistent heat source over a long period of time, they require very little (if any) maintenance, and are much more efficient than other forms of eco-heating. The actual in-house heat exchanger unit is bigger than a boiler, and more akin to a small fridge size, so you may want to consider that when it comes to installation. Generally, hot water is taken straight from the heated side of the exchanger unit, so you should always have it on tap. 
When installing a ground source heat pump you have, at the most, a couple of weeks where your garden is disturbed - but apart from that, you won’t even know that you have it! 
This sounds like a good environmentally friendly way to source heat, but are there any downsides to the scheme? Well, you must have your system installed by a recognised systems engineer to be eligible for any grants or Renewable Heat Incentives (RHI) payments so if you have budgeted that amount you will get a proper installer. Check with local Government stipulations for any help you can apply for. 
As with any heating system, a poorly insulated house will impact on your heating so you may want to tackle that first. Heat pumps produce a steady heat and it usually isn’t possible to ‘turn the heat up’ if it does get colder, so you may have to rely on a secondary source of heat such as an electric heater. However, if you have a well-insulated property, you will get the full benefit from this type of system. 
If you are doing a major overhaul of a property, and are considering ground source heating, you may want to also consider fitting underfloor heating too as this is a much better use of the heating facilities rather than standard radiators. Ground Source Heat Pumps are an efficient and ecological way to deliver what would otherwise be wasted heat to your property, and with grants and incentive schemes well established, you could end up paying absolutely nothing for your heating and hot water. 
If you’re considering eco-friendly alternatives to heat your home or new development, get in touch with Kent Building Developments today!  
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