How Ground Source Heat Pumps Work

A GSHP system is comprised of three basic elements, a ground loop, the heat pump itself and a building heat distribution system.

1. A mixture of water and antifreeze (often referred to as brine™) is circulated around a loop of polyethylene pipe (a ground loop) which is buried in the grounds of the property.

2. Energy is absorbed from the ground into the carrier fluid. Energy is taken from the ground via a loop or bore hole.

3. A heat exchanger then extracts the absorbed heat and transfers it to a refrigerant in the heat pump.

4. The refrigerant is compressed to achieve a higher temperature which is transferred into the buildings heat distribution system to provide hot water or space heating.