Energy efficiency with ground source heat pumps

Energy saving tips: Investing in ground source heat pumps Many more people are starting to take the environment into consideration, and are making changes to their homes to have a more positive effect. With this in mind, a lot of people are choosing ground source heat pumps. With an increasing number of people making the switch from regular heating, this green energy source is one of the most economical energy saving tips around. Ground source heat pumps are a system of pipes which lay underground. They utilise the energy from the ground, known as geothermal energy, to control the temperature of a specific area. The piping is made from polyethylene or copper, then a refrigerant is used to fill it. The pump then forces the fluid through the pipes, which are then cooled or heated by the ground. This allows the temperature to be constant and to keep a house warm in winter and cool in summer. Ground source heat pumps are also used to provide hot water supplies and heating for radiators. For those who care about their effect on the environment, ground source heat pumps are popular because they reduce Carbon Dioxide emissions. As the heating and cooling is performed by the ground, no chemicals are used which means that it doesn't harm the environment. Research has shown that an average home can save up to 5,500 tons in carbon emissions by installing a ground source heat pump system. There are a range of reasons to use the heat pump including: Easy installation: Heat pumps can be installed almost anywhere, all you need is a small area of land such as a garden or yard. There are no boilers involved or large equipment that has to be fitted in to place. Easy maintenance: Once it has been installed, the system essentially runs itself. Once heat has been drawn from the ground, it is passed through a compressor by a loop. It is then absorbed whilst the air passes back to the ground, starting the process again. All you really have to do is occasionally check for blockages such as dry leaves and make sure that weeds are not growing in to the system. To reduce the risk of blockage, keep a lid on the system at all times. Low electricity bills: The consumption of electricity used to burn fossil fuels are much higher than those on ground source heat pumps. In cold areas where electrical heating has to be kept on around the clock, electricity costs can be huge. While the initial installation of a ground source heat pump can be quite costly, the money you will save in electricity bills will recoup that cost and save you money in the long run. By choosing alternative, green-friendly heating methods like ground source heat pumps, you can do your bit for the environment whilst saving money.