Ground Source vs Air Source Heat Pumps

Which Is Right for You? | The Heat Works, Yeovil & Somerset

As more homes and businesses in Yeovil and Somerset look to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions, heat pumps have become a popular alternative to traditional heating systems. At The Heat Works, we regularly help customers decide between the two main types: ground source heat pumps (GSHP) and air source heat pumps (ASHP).

Both are highly efficient and renewable, but they suit different types of properties and budgets. In this guide, we compare ground source vs air source heat pumps so you can make the right decision for your home.

What Are Heat Pumps?

Both air source and ground source heat pumps work by extracting heat from the environment and using it to heat your home and hot water. Instead of burning fuel, they transfer ambient heat using a refrigerant cycle, making them much more efficient than traditional boilers.

• Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) draw heat from the outside air.
• Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) extract heat from the ground using buried pipework.

Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – Pros & Cons

✅ Advantages

• Lower Installation Cost: Generally cheaper and faster to install than ground source systems.
• Space-Saving: Doesn’t require large garden space—ideal for most homes in Yeovil and Somerset towns.
• Easy Integration: Works with radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water cylinders.
• Government Grants Available: Eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (£7,500 grant).

⚠️ Considerations

• Slightly Lower Efficiency: Efficiency may drop in very cold weather (but still far better than fossil fuel systems).
• Outdoor Unit Needed: Requires a unit to be installed outside the home, which must be kept clear of obstructions.

🏡 Best For:

Homes with limited outdoor space, smaller gardens, or retrofit projects in towns like Yeovil, Sherborne, or Martock.

Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – Pros & Cons

✅ Advantages

• Higher Efficiency: Delivers very consistent performance, even in winter, due to stable ground temperatures.
• Long-Term Savings: Higher upfront cost but lower long-term running costs.
• Quieter Operation: No outdoor fan unit—runs silently inside the home.
• Very Low Carbon Emissions: Ideal for off-grid or sustainable homes.

⚠️ Considerations

• Higher Installation Cost: Usually more expensive due to the need for groundworks.
• Requires Outdoor Space: Needs enough land for horizontal trenches or vertical boreholes.
• Longer Installation Time: More planning and groundwork required.

🏡 Best For:

Properties with larger gardens or land, new builds, or homes planning a full heating upgrade in rural areas around South Somerset.

Cost Comparison

Note: Actual costs and times vary based on your property and site conditions. The Heat Works provides full, tailored estimates following a free site visit.

Which Heat Pump Should You Choose?

If you’re unsure which type of system is right for you, consider:

• How much outdoor space do you have?
• Are you renovating or retrofitting?
• What’s your budget for upfront vs long-term savings?
• How important is energy efficiency or off-grid capability?

Expert Advice from Yeovil’s Heat Pump Specialists

At The Heat Works, we specialise in both air source and ground source heat pump systems across Yeovil, Sherborne, Crewkerne, Chard, Wincanton, and throughout Somerset.

We provide:

✅ Free site surveys and energy consultations
✅ MCS-certified installation and support with government grants
✅ Custom system design based on your home and lifestyle
✅ Servicing and aftercare to keep your heat pump efficient and reliable

Get Started Today

Whether you’re considering an air source or ground source heat pump, the best first step is to speak to a local expert.

📍 Visit our showroom in Yeovil
📞 Call us on 01935 476927
🌐 Learn more at theheatworks.com

Ready to switch to low-carbon heating? Let The Heat Works help you choose the perfect heat pump solution for your Somerset home.