Heat Pumps
Hydronic heat pump systems are gaining popularity as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution due to their remarkable energy efficiency. Unlike conventional heating methods that rely on burning fossil fuels, heat pumps utilise renewable energy sources, such as geothermal energy, to produce heated and chilled water. By tapping into the Earth’s constant, renewable energy heat pumps are leading the transition to sustainable and comfortable living.
Heat pumps achieve greater efficiencies because they transfer heat instead of generating it. They work by extracting heat from an external source like the air, ground or water and transferring it indoors to warm your home. When it is time to cool down, the process reverses and heat is removed from the home and released outdoors.
Heat pumps and hydronics are the perfect match. Here’s why:
Energy efficiency – They can deliver up to 5 times more energy than they consume. This amounts to significant savings over time.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – Heat pumps use renewable sources which means fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a happier planet.
Cost-Effective – While there is a higher upfront cost for the system, the long-term savings on energy bills make heat pumps worth the investment.
Year-Round Comfort – Heat pumps deliver consistent warmth in winter and gentle cooling in summer.
Low Maintenance – There are fewer mechanical components which makes them easier to install. Heat pumps can last up to 20+ years with little servicing required.
Multi-tasking – Multiple household heating and cooling needs can be managed from one heat pump including add-on services like domestic hot water, pool and spa heating.
There are two main types of heat pumps used in hydronic systems.
Air Source Heat Pumps (monoblock)
Air source heat pumps provide an energy-efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to heat and cool your home. By extracting heat from the air—even in freezing temperatures—they deliver reliable warmth in winter, while in summer, they reverse the process to provide refreshing cooling. With lower running costs than traditional gas or electric heating systems, air source heat pumps significantly reduce energy bills while cutting carbon emissions. Their compact design, quick installation and ability to work in all climates make them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to upgrade to a sustainable, future-proof heating and cooling solution.
Ground Source Heat Pumps
Ground source or geothermal heat pumps are more efficient over time because they rely on the stable temperatures beneath the earth’s surface. Unlike air source heat pumps, they are not impacted by seasonal temperature changes, ensuring consistent performance year-round. A water-based solution circulates through a buried pipe system (ground loops) and is then used to warm your home via hydronic heating. In warmer months, excess heat is stored underground or expelled to provide cooling. While geothermal heat pumps cost more to install, they can deliver unmatched efficiency and even greater energy savings. They also last longer with the equipment installed inside and the external ground loops lasting 50+ years. If you are playing the long game, geothermal is the standout option.
Solar integration
Harnessing the power of both solar energy and heat pump technology is a game-changer for energy efficiency. A photovoltaic system and/or batteries can be paired with a heat pump to generate electricity more sustainably and reduce your carbon footprint. Our heat pumps can manage surplus electricity with an e-manager, so any surplus produced is not sent back to the grid but used as thermal storage in the home. The energy savings achieved are likely to reduce the upfront investment of a solar system and overall reliance on the power grid.
At Highlands GeoExchange, we partner with world leading heat pump brands like Ecoforest -renowned for their advanced technology, reliable performance and energy efficiency. These fit-for-purpose machines are compact, highly versatile and can adapt to the energy needs of each installation through intuitive features and controls. Homeowners can enjoy savings of up to 50% with a ground source heat pump, compared to conventional equipment.
Upgrade to a Smarter, More Sustainable Heating & Cooling Solution
Heat pumps and hydronic systems are the ultimate energy-efficient combination for modern homes. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, lower your energy bills, or enjoy year-round comfort, an air source or ground source heat pump paired with hydronic heating is the perfect solution.
Contact the trusted experts at Highlands GeoExchange to find out which heat pump system is right for your home!
