Ground source heat pumps are a sustainable alternative to traditional heating. As the world turns towards a greener future, ground source heat pumps may play a pivotal role in the way we heat our homes.
There are two main types of closed loop ground source systems: horizontal closed loop systems and vertical closed loop systems. In this article, we take a look at each system in greater depth to help you find the right one for your home.
A closed loop ground source system is a system that uses underground pipes to exchange heat with the ground. It’s called a ‘closed loop’ system because the pipes are buried in the ground and then connected to a heat pump inside the building, creating a — you guessed it — closed loop. The heat pump uses the temperature difference between the ground and the air to heat or cool the building as needed.
The two main types of ground source heat pump systems are horizontal closed loop systems and vertical closed loop systems. Both of these systems use underground pipes to exchange heat with the ground, but the difference lies in the way they are installed.
A horizontal closed loop system involves burying a series of pipes horizontally in the ground, typically at a depth of 4-6 feet. This type of system is great for areas with a large, flat area of land available for installation. The pipes are connected to a ground source heat pump inside the building, which uses the temperature difference between the ground and the air to heat or cool the building as needed. It’s a simple and effective way to use the stable temperature of the ground to keep your home comfortable all year round.
Vertical closed loop systems involve burying pipes vertically in the ground. This type of system is perfect for areas where the available land is limited, such as in urban areas or on sloping terrain.
Vertical closed loop systems require more specialised equipment and expertise to install the pipes. They do, however, require less land and less piping to install, making them ideal for smaller properties or where space is limited.
Both horizontal and vertical closed loop ground source heat pump systems are effective ways to heat and cool buildings in a sustainable and efficient manner. The type of system that is best for a particular location will depend on the available land and the specific needs of your building.
Operating nationally and internationally, Drilcorp can provide horizontal or vertical closed loop ground source systems to suit your needs. Our team has over 30 years of experience and caters to domestic and commercial clients alike.
Contact our team today to find out more.
