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Geo-thermal energy is basically heat collected from the ground by the use of a ground source heat pump. At about 1.2-1.5 metres below ground level the temperature is typically at a constant 10 to 12ºC. - even in the middle of winter. This is usually used to warm water for radiators or underfloor heating systems. It can also be used to pre-heat water before it goes into a more conventional boiler. A ground source heat pump is a device for converting this thermal energy to a usable temperature. The heat pump consists of five main parts;a ground loop, heat exchanger, compressor, condenser heat exchanger and expansion valve.

A ground source heat pump circulates a mixture of water and antifreeze around a loop of pipe - called a ground loop - which is buried in the garden. The length of the ground loop depends on the size of your home and the amount of heat you need - longer loops can draw more heat from the ground. Normally the loop is laid flat, or coiled in trenches about two metres deep, but if there is not enough space in your garden you can install a vertical loop to a depth of up to 100 metres. A ground feasibility report would be required to check if this method of heat source is viable.
When the liquid travels around the loop it absorbs heat from the ground the hot liquid passes to the condenser heat exchanger where it gives up this heat to the water in the building’s heating loop.- used to heat radiators, underfloor heating systems and even hot water, - and then returns to the ground bores to collect more energy. The temperature of the water flowing from the heat pump into the building’s heating circuit is about 55ºc. Wall radiators are designed to operate at a flow temperature of 80ºc so such radiators would have to be twice as large.
The use of underfloor heating is ideal in conjunction with ground source heat pumps. While heat pumps require electricity to run them they return roughly three to four times the input into the heating system, and if the electricity is also from a renewable source such as a wind turbine, it would provide a more sustainable solution.
Systems can be scaled up to supply hotels and offices etc. When installed correctly, geothermal systems generally require very little repair for 20-25 years. For optimal performance, homeowners should keep system ducts and air filters clean, and change / clean filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Annual maintenance of the pump and loop system should be done by an accredited service contractor. Digging is not required to perform regular maintenance! The cooling aspect of the ground source heat pump system also vastly out-performs the efficiency of conventional air conditioning units. more Next steps

If you would like further advice on how Ground source heat pumps can improve your Carbon Footprint and make economical sustainable energy, then give our expert, Arthur Hull, a call on (+44) 01892 522111 Arthur and his team at Unique Data, will be happy to present further details and talk through your individual requirements.
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