GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS
At Clade, we design, manufacture and install high-performance commercial ground source heat pumps tailored to your building and energy needs. Our end-to-end service ensures optimal efficiency, reduced emissions and long-term energy savings — all backed by British engineering expertise and in-house support.
Our ground source heat pumps are available as a bespoke solution, tailored to your project. Contact our expert team to discuss your requirements.
WHAT IS A GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP?
A ground source heat pump (GSHP) is a highly efficient, low-carbon heating system that uses electricity to extract natural heat stored in the ground. This renewable energy is upgraded via a refrigeration cycle and used to provide space heating and hot water for buildings all year round.
By circulating fluid through buried pipework (either in horizontal trenches or vertical boreholes), the system absorbs stable underground temperatures. In winter, it extracts heat and raises it to a usable temperature. In summer, it can be reversed to provide cooling – much like an air conditioning system.
For commercial buildings looking to reduce carbon emissions and energy costs, a GSHP offers a proven, sustainable alternative to traditional gas or oil-based heating systems. With proper design, it can meet 100% of a building’s heating and hot water needs, delivering reliable performance for decades.
HOW DOES A GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP WORK?
A ground source heat pump (GSHP) works by extracting low-temperature heat stored in the ground and upgrading it for use in space heating and hot water. It uses a closed loop of underground pipes, known as the ground array, filled with a water-antifreeze mixture. As this fluid circulates, it absorbs thermal energy from the surrounding soil, rock, or groundwater.
Inside the heat pump, this heat is transferred to a refrigerant, which evaporates and is compressed to a much higher temperature. The heated refrigerant then transfers warmth into the building’s heating system, such as radiators, underfloor heating, or a hot water cylinder. The refrigerant is then cooled, and the cycle begins again, delivering efficient, renewable heating all year, even in cold weather.
BENEFITS OF GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS
Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are rapidly becoming the go-to solution for efficient, low-carbon heating and cooling — especially for commercial buildings seeking long-term performance and sustainability. By tapping into the steady temperature underground, these systems offer year-round comfort with minimal environmental impact. Here’s why more organisations are making the switch:
- High Efficiency: Generates 3–4x more energy than it consumes.
- Low Carbon: Cuts emissions by using renewable ground heat.
- Dual Function: Offers both heating and cooling in one system.
- Reliable Year-Round: Performs consistently, even in freezing weather.
- Durable: 20–25 year system life, with ground loops lasting over 50 years.
- Financial Incentives: Eligible for grants and funding
AIR SOURCE VS GROUND SOURCE
While ground source heat pumps are highly efficient and reliable, they can be more costly and complex to install than air source systems. They typically require more space, groundwork, and a longer installation time — which is why they’re less common for commercial use.
At Clade, we also offer air source heat pumps, which deliver similar benefits with easier installation and lower upfront costs, making them ideal for many businesses. Speak to our team to find the best fit for your site.
OPEN-LOOP VS CLOSED-LOOP SYSTEMS
Ground source heat pumps use either closed-loop or open-loop systems to extract heat. Closed-loop systems circulate a fluid through buried pipework to absorb ground or water heat. Open-loop systems draw groundwater directly from a nearby source, extract the heat, and discharge it back. Both can use horizontal loops (slinkies) or vertical boreholes, depending on space and site conditions. Closed-loop is more common, while open-loop offers higher efficiency but requires environmental permissions.
FAQ's About Ground Source Heat pumps
At Clade, we begin each project with a comprehensive heat-loss assessment and site survey. This ensures your GSHP system, whether using slinkies, boreholes, or open-loop extraction, is accurately sized to match your building’s heat demand and site conditions.
Yes. Commercial installations may qualify for funding via the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) and other low-carbon incentives. Clade can support clients in navigating eligibility and application processes as part of our end-to-end service.
Absolutely. Because they draw heat from the ground, where temperatures remain stable year-round — GSHPs maintain performance even in cold air temperatures. This makes them highly reliable across all regions of the UK.
At Clade, we assess all regulatory considerations during the design stage and can guide you through the planning process where needed, ensuring full compliance from the outset.
Clade offers a full start to finish heat pumps solution. Our team of engineers design your system, manufacture and supply your heat pumps from our product range, our installation team ensures your heat pump is fully functional and our after sales support team provides ongoing maintenance. You can pick and choose as many or as few of our services to suit your requirements.
CONTACT US
Speak with our team of experts and discuss your requirements. Complete this quick form and we will be in touch or contact us using:
Bristol & Bath Science Park
Dirac Crescent, Emersons Green
Bristol, BS16 7FR