Ground Therm | Heating Solutions

There is no doubt about it - our domestic and commercial fuel costs are getting higher and notwithstanding any temporary reductions in cost, the general trend is definitely upwards.

With our constant search for further scarce sources of fossil fuels goes a growing realisation that their use causes environmental damage not least of which is global warming. It is these two factors of cost and environmental degradation which has brought the renewable energy sector into greater prominence.

Consequently, governments, academic institutions and companies throughout the world have started to spend more on research and development in the hope of finding viable alternatives to fossil fuels.

One tried and tested system in the forefront of the possible heating alternatives is to tap into the geothermal energy beneath our feet by using Ground Source Heat Pumps like those supplied by Groundtherm in Denton, Manchester. This technology has been around now for over sixty years and is increasingly popular in Europe and the US.

For most people, however, the workings and cost benefits of this technology will probably be unfamiliar. In simple terms, the system works by taking ground heat and turning it into useable energy. Because the Sun's radiation keeps the Earth at a constant temperature of between 8 and 12 degrees Celsius at a depth of 1.5 metres, this can be taken up by Ground Source Heat Pumps.

Ground heat is absorbed by pipes containing a circulating Thermal Transfer Fluid laid either horizontally or in deep boreholes and converted for heating by a heat pump, which runs at between 300% and 400% efficiency. The heat can be used in an under-floor heating system or conventional radiators. The process can also be reversed to provide cooling when required.

Although not all properties are suitable for this system, many can take advantage of this technology. Durable piping, no boiler maintenance, no fire risk, maintenance-free operation all add to the attractions. When allied with suitable insulation, substantial savings of 75% and more can be made on heating costs.

Groundtherm, in association with Nutherm, are the local specialists who plan, install and project manage the entire process on behalf of clients.