Using a Ground Source Heat Pump with Solar Thermal

Integrated solar thermal panels

 

If you’d like to maximise the potential of solar thermal technology we recommend considering combining it with a ground source heat pump. Solar Thermal works in harmony with a ground source heat pump system by storing solar energy in the ground collectors of the heat pump system.


How Does it Work?

Typically when the heat or hot water demand from your property is topped up and the requirement for heat decreases or stops, the solar thermal collectors stop collecting energy from the sun even if it is still readily available. Throughout the day there may not be need for heating, but then in the evening, if the climate feels colder you may want to turn the heating on or run a hot bath or shower, but by this point the sun has gone down and that free energy from the sun is no longer available. This is where we can help. We can design and install a system which enables your solar thermal to continue collecting energy throughout the day and divert it to the ground collector for your heat pump, storing it there until it is next needed. When the demand for hot water and heating increases, the heat pump releases the stored thermal energy, requiring less electricity to operate as the temperature is already higher than normal thanks to this ‘thermal charge’.


What Are the Benefits?

Pairing your solar thermal with a heat pump has many benefits which include:

  • Improved SCOP rating – studies have shown that when solar thermal is paired with a ground source heat pump, the seasonal coefficient of performance rating improves even further
  • Uses more free, clean and renewable energy
  • If you use a renewable electricity provider your system will be 100% carbon free
  • Increases self-sufficiency of your property
  • Reduces utility bills, saving you money
  • Long lasting and low maintenance system – heat pumps last approximately 20 years or more
  • Heat pumps and solar thermal are both valid for financial incentives and funding including the Renewable Heat Incentive and the Green Homes Grant.

Get in touch

If you’re planning on installing both a heat pump and solar thermal system, get in touch to find out how we can help to maximise the performance of your system, increase its efficiency and develop your use of clean, renewable energy. Submit an enquiry or call us on 01269 833 100, we’re happy to provide free, no obligation advice.


 




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