Ground source heat pump: An environmentally friendly and efficient heating solution

What is ground source heat pump

Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that uses solar energy stored in the soil to heat and cool buildings. It is an ecological and cost-effective alternative to traditional heating systems, such as oil and gas boilers. Geothermal systems use pipelines installed in the ground to collect heat from the soil or water and transfer it to the heating system.

How does geothermal energy work

Geothermal principle: How does the geothermal system work?

The geothermal system works by utilizing the thermal energy stored in the soil. The system consists of ground-mounted collection pipes, a heat pump and accumulators. The liquid circulating in the collection pipes collects heat from the soil and transfers it to the heat pump. The heat pump raises the temperature and distributes the heat further into the building. In summer, the system can be turned to work in the opposite way, in which case it cools the building.

Heat sources: What heat sources does geothermal heat use?

Geothermal systems can utilize three main heat sources:

• Bedrock: Vertical boreholes collect heat from deeper in the soil. This is the most common heat collection method.
• Ground: Horizontal pipelines installed in the ground collect heat directly from the ground. This installation method requires a large area of ​​land.
• Water system: Heat can also be collected from water systems, where pipelines are placed under water to collect heat. Requires immediate proximity to a body of water.

System components: What parts are included in the geothermal system?

The geothermal system consists of the following components:

• Collection piping: Pipes installed in the ground or in water, in which the heat collection liquid circulates. This liquid transfers heat from the soil to the heat pump.
• Heat pump: A device that raises the temperature of the heat received from the collection pipeline and transfers it further to the heat distribution system.
• Tanks: Hot water tanks where hot water is stored.
• Heat distribution system: A water-circulating system that distributes the heat received from the heat pump to different parts of the building. This may include underfloor heating, radiators or air conditioning ducts. Usually this already exists in the building, but can also be installed afterwards.
• Control system: An automatic system that adjusts and monitors the operation of the geothermal system, ensuring optimal energy efficiency and comfort.

The benefits of geothermal energy

Environmental friendliness: How does geothermal heat reduce your carbon footprint?

Geothermal heating is one of the most environmentally friendly heating solutions because it uses renewable energy in the environment with high efficiency. Solar energy stored in the ground is collected and used to heat and cool buildings, which reduces the need for fossil fuels. This, in turn, reduces carbon dioxide emissions, which is central to combating climate change. In addition, geothermal systems do not produce local pollutants such as fine particles or nitrogen oxides, which improves the air quality in your environment.

Energy efficiency: How does geothermal energy save money?

Geothermal systems are very energy efficient because they transfer heat instead of producing it by burning fuel. This means that they can produce up to four times more energy than they consume in electricity. In the long term, this means considerable savings in heating costs. Although the initial investment of a geothermal system can be higher than that of traditional heating systems, its lower running costs and long life make it a financially viable choice.

Comfort: How does the geothermal system guarantee even heating?

Geothermal systems offer a constant and comfortable indoor temperature all year round. They can both heat and cool the building, which makes them a versatile solution for all seasons.

Maintenance-free: How little maintenance does the geothermal system require?

Geothermal systems are known for their low maintenance requirements. They mainly consist of underground collection pipes and a heat pump, which are durable and long-lasting. The heat pump only needs minor annual maintenance, such as cleaning the filters and checking the system. Underground pipelines are designed to last for decades without significant maintenance, which reduces maintenance costs and maintenance effort.

Increase in value: How does a geothermal system increase the property's value?

Investing in a geothermal system can significantly increase the property's value. Potential buyers appreciate environmentally friendly and energy-efficient solutions that reduce operating and maintenance costs. A property with an installed geothermal system can be more attractive on the market and stand out positively from other properties. In addition, the geothermal system's long service life and low need for maintenance increase its attractiveness in the eyes of buyers, making it a valuable selling point.

Things to consider in geothermal heat

Acquisition costs: How much does it cost to install a geothermal system?

Installing a geothermal system is a significant investment that can be a big financial commitment for many households. Typically, the costs of a geothermal system vary between 15,000 and 25,000 euros, depending on the size of the property and the need for heat.

Space requirement: How much space does the geothermal system require?

The installation of a geothermal system requires sufficient space for underground collection pipes or boreholes. Horizontal collection pipelines require a large plot of land where the pipelines can be installed without disturbing other structures or vegetation. Vertical boreholes require less surface area, and on small plots, vertical drilling is always possible in principle.

Is geothermal heat suitable for all properties?

Geothermal heat is generally suitable for all small house sites and most larger properties. Finland's soil is basically good for utilizing ground heat. The groundwater located under the plot prevents the implementation of vertical wells, but even then a horizontal collection pipeline is possible. The contractor will assist in ensuring installation suitability and compliance with local regulations.

Installation: How should the installation of the geothermal system be done by a professional?

Geothermal heating is a carefree heating solution when it is installed properly. The installation of a geothermal system requires expertise in the dimensioning of the system and, among other things, appropriate permits for the handling of refrigerants. An incorrectly installed and dimensioned system can lead to inefficient operation and high operating costs.

Installing geothermal heat

Steps of the installation process: How is the geothermal system installed?

The installation of a geothermal system consists of steps that must be carried out precisely and carefully. Here are the main steps of the installation process:

1. Planning and dimensioning: The first step is to determine the heating need, ensure the conditions for drilling and dimension the equipment. It is important that the equipment is dimensioned sensibly so that it produces optimal heating cost savings for the user.
2. Acquisition of permits: The contractor's task is to manage the permit process to install the system.
3. Installation of the collection pipeline: The collection pipelines, which are the core of the geothermal system, are installed in the ground. Here, it is important that the required number of meters covers the heating needs of the property.
4. Installation of the heat pump: After the collection piping is installed, the heat pump is installed in the building. The heat pump is connected to the collection pipeline and the heat distribution system, such as underfloor heating or radiators.
5. System testing and commissioning: After installation, the system is tested and adjusted for optimal operation. Commissioning also includes user training so that the owner understands the use and maintenance of the system.

Installation costs: How much does it cost to install a geothermal system?

The cost of installing a geothermal system can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as property size, soil conditions and system requirements. Typically, the total costs of a geothermal system vary between 15,000 and 25,000 euros. Although the initial investment is significant, the low operating costs and long service life of the geothermal system make it an economically viable choice in the long term.

Manufacturers and installers: How to find a reliable geothermal system supplier?

Finding a reliable geothermal system supplier is crucial for the successful installation and operation of the system. Here are some tips for finding a reliable supplier:

1. Request several offers: There are different types of equipment manufacturers and numerous local contractors on the market. It's worth asking for more than one quote, so you get a comprehensive picture of the solutions on the market.
2. Compare offers and pay attention to adequate sizing: Ask for several offers from different suppliers and compare them carefully. Pay attention to the content of the offer, prices and delivery terms. In particular, you should pay attention to the fact that the equipment and the borehole are sized properly - an undersized system leads to a lower savings potential. So the cheapest is not necessarily the best.
3. Rate customer service: Good customer service is an important part of a reliable supplier. Make sure the supplier is easily accessible and ready to answer your questions.

Support and warranty: How to ensure quality installation and support?

High-quality installation and support are essential to ensure the long-term functionality of the geothermal system. Here are some ways to ensure quality installation and support:

1. Warranty: Make sure the geothermal system has a comprehensive warranty that covers both the hardware and the installation. Good manufacturers usually offer long warranty periods.
2. Service contract: Many suppliers offer service contracts that include regular inspections and maintenance work. This can help keep your system up and running and prevent potential problems.
3. User training: A good supplier will provide user training so that you understand how to use the system and basic maintenance. This may include guidance on adjusting the heat pump and cleaning the filters.
4. Customer support: Make sure that the supplier offers customer support and is available in case of possible problem situations. Quick response and expert support can solve problems before they grow bigger.

Geothermal heat compared to other heating systems

Geothermal vs oil heating

The geothermal system uses the heat of the soil and is very energy efficient and environmentally friendly because it reduces carbon dioxide emissions. However, it requires a large initial investment. Oil heating, on the other hand, is based on fossil fuels and its operating costs can vary depending on the price of oil. The initial investment for oil heating is usually moderate, but it requires regular maintenance and the purchase of fuel, which increases operating costs and the environmental burden. In the long term, geothermal heat is both economically and ecologically a more sustainable option.

Geothermal vs direct electricity

Geothermal uses the heat of the soil and is a very energy-efficient option that offers low operating costs and little maintenance. However, its initial investment is quite high. Direct electric heating, on the other hand, is inexpensive to install and easy to use, but its operating costs can be considerably high, especially in the cold months. Electric heating is also dependent on the electricity grid, which makes it susceptible to fluctuations in the price of electricity. Geothermal also uses electricity, but due to the high efficiency, 3-4 times less - because of this, the fluctuations in the price of electricity are not so significant in geothermal.

Ground source heat pump vs district heating

Geothermal and district heating both offer efficient heating solutions, but their operating principles and cost structures differ. Geothermal is an independent system that uses the heat of the soil and offers low operating costs and a low need for maintenance. District heating, on the other hand, is a centralized heating system that distributes heat from a centralized production plant to several buildings. The advantage of district heating is its ease of use and low initial investment, but its operating costs can be very high, and district heating can never pay itself back.

Geothermal vs air-to-water heat pump

Geothermal and air-to-water heat pumps are both modern heating systems that reduce dependence on fossil fuels. A geothermal system uses the heat of the soil and is very energy efficient, but requires a large initial investment and space for underground collection pipes or boreholes. An air-to-water heat pump uses the thermal energy of the outside air to heat water, and its installation is cheaper and simpler. However, the efficiency of the air-to-water heat pump decreases when the frost gets tougher, which is why geothermal heat can often be the most profitable when considering the life cycle.

Geothermal and air-to-air heat pump

Geothermal heat covers the house's heating needs throughout the year, even in severe frosts. The air-to-air heat pump instead requires a back-up system, which is typically direct electric heating (radiators or underfloor heating). Both are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional heating systems. Geothermal uses the heat of the soil, which makes it a constant and reliable heat source all year round. The air-to-air source heat pump utilizes the thermal energy of the outside air, and its advantage is a lower initial investment and easy installation.

Ground heat vs solar heat

Geothermal and solar heat are both environmentally friendly heating options, but their operation and efficiency differ from each other. The geothermal system utilizes the heat stored in the soil, which is available all year round and in all weather conditions. This makes it a very reliable form of heating. A solar thermal system is a secondary form of heating that uses solar radiation, making it dependent on sunlight and less efficient on cloudy and winter days.

Summary

Geothermal heat is an environmentally friendly and efficient heating solution that uses solar energy stored in the soil to heat and cool buildings. It is an ecological and cost-effective alternative to traditional heating systems. Geothermal systems consist of pipelines installed in the ground, a heat pump, accumulators and a heat distribution system, which together produce an even and comfortable indoor temperature all year round.

The advantages of geothermal heat are manifold: it reduces the carbon footprint, saves money thanks to its energy efficiency, provides even heating and is low-maintenance. Although installing a geothermal system requires a significant initial investment and sufficient space for underground collection pipes or boreholes, its long-term savings and environmental friendliness make it an attractive option. When comparing geothermal heat to other heating systems, such as direct electric heating or district heating, geothermal heat stands out especially thanks to its affordability and efficiency.

Frequently asked Questions

Can geothermal heat run out?

Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source based on the heat underground. It practically does not run out in the same way that fossil fuels do, because the sun and the soil continuously produce heat. Geothermal heat is utilized with the help of boreholes and heat pumps, and the equipment related to its utilization can last for decades with proper maintenance.

Recently, there have been articles in the media in which the depletion of geothermal boreholes has been treated incorrectly. Such misunderstandings are often caused by system vendors using incorrect or bad assumptions in their calculations. This can lead to the investment price appearing lower, as fewer wells are drilled than would be necessary. If such undervalued offers are selected based on price alone, the wells can really run dry.

It is essential to measure the adequacy of the boreholes and the size of the system correctly so that the wells do not run out. Apex Heat's ready-made calculations and comprehensive information will help you choose the right offer.

In summary, it can be stated that geothermal heat does not actually run out, but the conditions for its utilization may vary. A properly installed and maintained geothermal system can provide a sustainable and efficient energy solution long into the future.

When will geothermal heat pay for itself?

The payback period for geothermal heat can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the heating needs of the house, the installation costs of the geothermal system, the price of energy and available subsidies. In general, the payback period is 5-15 years. However, more accurate estimates and calculations can be made taking into account the following factors:

1. Initial investment: The acquisition and installation costs of a geothermal system can vary between 15,000 and 25,000 euros, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation.
2. Energy savings: Geothermal energy can produce up to more than 70% savings in heating costs compared to oil or electric heating. However, the savings depend on the heating needs of the house and the current heating system.
3. Energy subsidies and tax subsidies: Various subsidies are available in Finland, which can speed up the repayment period. These can include, for example, energy subsidies and household deductions.
4. Energy price: The increase in energy costs accelerates the payback period, because the savings in heating costs increase in proportion to the increase in energy prices.
5. Operation and maintenance: Geothermal systems are usually long-lived and require little maintenance. A well-maintained system can work efficiently for decades, which improves the profitability of the investment in the long term.

For example, for a detached house whose heating costs were previously 2,500 euros per year, and which saves 1,750 euros per year with a geothermal system (70% savings), the payback period would be about 10 years, if the initial investment is 20,000 euros and there are some subsidies and grants in use.

In summary, it can be stated that the payback period for a geothermal investment varies, but it is typically between 5 and 15 years, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Is it worth turning off the geothermal heat pump?

Switching off the geothermal heat pump can be reasonable in certain situations, such as during the summer months, during a long absence or in maintenance situations. However, in most cases, continuous use of the ground source heat pump is recommended to maximize energy efficiency and comfort. Before making a decision, you should consider the heating needs of the house, possible alternative heat sources and the maintenance needs of the geothermal heat pump. This is how you ensure that the geothermal heat pump works optimally and offers the best possible savings and comfort.

When can it make sense to switch off the geothermal heat pump?

1. During the summer months

In the summer months, when there is little or no need for heating, it can be tempting to turn off the geothermal heat pump. However, the geothermal heat pump also produces hot domestic water, so turning it off means that the house needs another heat source to heat domestic water. If you use, for example, solar panels or an electric water heater, you can consider turning off the geothermal heat pump.

2. During a long absence

If you are away from home for a long time, such as during a vacation, turning off the geothermal heat pump can reduce energy consumption. However, it is important to ensure that the indoor temperature does not drop too low, which could cause condensation or other problems. By installing a smart thermostat, you can adjust the temperature remotely and ensure that the temperature remains high enough to avoid potential damage.

3. In maintenance situations

If the geothermal heat pump needs maintenance or repair, it should be turned off. This is important both for the safety of the device and for performing maintenance work. Regular maintenance ensures optimal operation and a long service life of the geothermal heat pump.

In many cases, continuous use of the geothermal heat pump is recommended. The system is designed to work year-round, and turning it off and on again can cause more wear and tear and potential technical issues. Continuous use also ensures an even and comfortable indoor temperature and the availability of warm domestic water.

How much electricity does geothermal energy use?

Geothermal heat pumps consume electricity, but the amount of electricity they use is usually much lower than traditional electric or oil heating systems. The electricity demand of a geothermal heat pump depends on several factors, such as the size of the building, insulation, system power and intensity of use.

Electricity consumption in the geothermal system

1. COP (Coefficient of Performance): The efficiency of a geothermal heat pump is measured by the COP value. This value tells how many kilowatt-hours of thermal energy the system produces per kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed. For example, a geothermal heat pump operating with a COP value of 4 produces 4 kWh of heat with one kilowatt hour of electricity.
2. Effect of heating demand: On average, a Finnish detached house consumes about 20,000 to 30,000 kWh of heat energy per year. If the average COP of a geothermal heat pump is 4, it means that the annual electricity consumption for heating would be approximately 5,000 to 7,500 kWh.

Example calculation

If the annual space heating demand of a single-family house is 20,000 kWh and domestic water is 6,000 kWh, and the average COP of the geothermal heat pump is 4, the electricity consumption would be as follows:

• Heating: 20 000 kWh / 4 = 5 000 kWh
• Domestic water*: 6 000 kWh / 3 = 2 000 kWh
• Total: 5 000 kWh + 1 500 kWh = 7 000 kWh per year

*generally, the COP value of domestic water is closer to three, because domestic water must be heated to 58 degrees throughout the year due to legionella bacteria.

Savings compared to other forms of heating

A geothermal system is often significantly more energy-efficient and cost-effective compared to direct electric heating or oil heating. For example, direct electric heating could consume 20,000 to 30,000 kWh of electricity per year, which is significantly more than the consumption of a geothermal heat pump.

The electricity consumption of a geothermal heat pump depends on several factors, but on average it is about a good quarter of the building's total heating needs. A properly sized and maintained geothermal system can offer significant savings in both energy consumption and costs.

Is geothermal heat worth it for an old house?

Geothermal heat can be a very profitable and environmentally friendly solution for an old house. However, it is important to make a thorough assessment and possibly improve the house's energy efficiency before installing a geothermal system. The help of an expert is recommended so that the system is sized correctly and the investment produces the best possible benefits.

How much does it cost to drill a geothermal borehole?

The cost of drilling a geothermal boreholwl can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the type of soil, the location of the drilling site, and the required depth of the well. Here is an overview of the costs and the factors that affect them:

General costs

• Average cost: The cost of drilling a geothermal borehole usually varies between 40 and 50 euros per meter. This means that, for example, a 200-meter-deep well can cost 8,000 to 10,000 euros.
• Total cost: The total cost includes not only the drilling, but also other work related to the installation, such as installing the piping and connecting the heat pump. The installation of the entire geothermal system can cost 15,000–25,000 euros, depending on the scope of the project and the necessary components.

Factors that affect the cost of drilling a geothermal borehole

1. Soil quality: The depth of bedrock, if the rock is very far from the ground surface, there will be additional costs when you have to pipe soft soil.
2. Borehole depth: A deeper borehole costs more because it takes more time and resources to drill. The depth of the well depends on the required thermal energy and the properties of the soil.
3. Location and access to the borehole site: If the drilling site is difficult to reach or far from the infrastructure, costs can increase. For example, drilling in an urban area can be more expensive than in a rural area.
4. Local Regulations and Permits: In some areas, drilling may require special permits and inspections, which can add to the overall cost.
5. Experience and quality of the installation company: Costs can also vary depending on the installation company. More experienced and reputable companies may charge more, but are also likely to offer better service and reliability.

Additional costs

• Pipeline installation: Pipeline installation from the borehole to the house usually costs 1,000–3,000 euros.
• Heat pump installation: The price and installation of the heat pump itself can cost 5,000–10,000 euros.
• Electrical work and other related work: These can cost around 1,000–3,000 euros.

The cost of drilling a geothermal borehole can vary greatly depending on several factors, but the total cost is usually between 5,000 and 10,000 euros per borehole. Taking into account the installation of the entire geothermal system, the total costs can be 15,000–25,000 euros. You should always find out the exact costs by asking for offers from several different suppliers and making sure that all the necessary work and permits are taken into account in the offer.