Air Source vs Ground Source Heat Pump Comparison
Help choosing the right renewable heating system
Air Source vs Ground Source Heat Pumps in Berkshire. How to choose the right system for your home?
If you’re considering a heat pump for your home, it’s important to understand the differences between air source heat pumps (ASHPs) and ground source heat pumps (GSHPs). Both use renewable energy to heat your home and water, but the way they work, install, and perform can differ.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Ground Source Heat Pumps
How Air Source Heat Pumps compare with Ground Source Heat Pumps
| Feature | Air Source Heat Pumps | Ground Source Heat Pumps |
|---|---|---|
|
Heat Source |
Heat is extracted from the outside air |
Heat is extracted from the ground via buried loops |
|
Indoor Unit |
Hydrobox transfers heat to water |
Hydrobox transfers heat to water |
|
Heat Delivery Temperature |
Usually 35–45°C, slightly higher than Ground Source Heat Pumps |
Usually 30–40°C, lower flow temperature, ideal for underfloor heating |
|
Efficiency in Cold Weather |
Efficiency drops when outdoor air is very cold |
Efficiency remains stable because ground temperature is constant |
|
Installation Complexity |
Simple outdoor unit installation, less disruption |
Ground loops require excavation or boreholes, more complex |
|
Space Requirements |
Small outdoor unit; minimal garden impact |
Requires garden space or borehole for loops |
|
Running Costs |
Slightly higher in very cold weather |
Lower long-term costs due to stable efficiency |
|
Noise |
Outdoor unit produces some fan noise |
Almost silent; only indoor hydrobox operating |
|
Best Suited For |
Existing homes or smaller gardens |
New builds, well-insulated homes with sufficient land |
|
Typical Lifespan |
15–20 years (hydrobox) |
15–20 years (hydrobox) + 50+ years for ground loops |
Key takeaway for homeowners:
Air Source Heat Pumps are easier to retrofit, take up less space, and are faster to install, but can lose efficiency on very cold days.
Ground Source Heat Pumps require more space and higher upfront costs, but provide consistent, highly efficient heating year-round, with lower running costs over time.
Installation Comparisons
There are notable differences between these two systems when it comes to the installation process:
- Air Source Heat Pumps: Typically 3–5 days; involves mounting the outdoor unit, indoor hydrobox, cylinder, and connecting to heating circuits.
- Ground Source Heat Pumps: Usually 1–2 weeks; involves ground loop excavation or borehole drilling, indoor installation, and removal of old equipment.
Ground Source Heat Pumps need more outdoor space or borehole access, whereas Air Source Heat Pumps are more flexible for gardens or smaller properties.
Efficiency & Running Cost Comparison
There are also differences between these two systems when it comes to the upfront costs and ongoing running costs:
- Air Source Heat Pumps: Good efficiency, works well in most homes. Lower upfront cost, slightly higher running costs than GSHPs in very cold weather.
- Ground Source Heat Pumps: Excellent efficiency (up to 4:1), more consistent heating in winter, higher upfront cost but potentially lower long-term running costs.
Space Needed Comparisons
Lastly it’s important to be aware of the differences in the physical space required for each of these systems:
- Air Source Heat Pumps: Small outdoor unit, usually mounted on a wall or stand.
- Ground Source Heat Pumps: Requires garden space for horizontal loops or boreholes for vertical loops.
Ground Source Heat Pumps need more outdoor space or borehole access, whereas Air Source Heat Pumps are more flexible for gardens or smaller properties.
Funding and Grants For Air Source Heat Pumps
Both Air Source Heat Pumps and Ground Source Heat Pumps are eligible for up to £7,500 via the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, making renewable heating more affordable.
Which is Right for Your Home?
Air Source Heat Pumps: Ideal for retrofits, smaller gardens, or where less disruption is preferred.
Ground Source Heat Pumps: Best for new builds, well-insulated homes, and properties with sufficient garden space.
Learn more?
Air Source Heat Pumps – Detailed guide on installation, benefits, and maintenance.
Ground Source Heat Pumps – Everything you need to know about Ground Source Heat Pumps.
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