Air Source vs Ground Source Heat Pumps: Which Is Right for Your Home?

Getting Started: Why a Heat Pump Site Survey Matters

Choosing between an air source and a ground source heat pump isn’t just about price tags or yard space. It starts with a heat pump site survey. This survey is your roadmap: it tells you what system fits your home, your budget, and your lifestyle. Without it, you’re rolling the dice on efficiency, costs, and comfort.

A proper survey also uncovers hidden factors—building insulation levels, existing space for equipment, even soil type for ground loops. That’s why we always recommend a specialist visit first. Ready to see your options laid out clearly? Book your heat pump site survey with Megawave’s Eco-Friendly Heating Revolution

Air Source Heat Pumps: How They Work and Why You Might Love Them

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) capture warmth from the outside air—even in chilly UK winters. They work like a fridge in reverse, heating refrigerant and pumping it into your home’s heating circuit. Simple? Yes. Effective? Absolutely.

Pros

• Lower upfront cost than ground source.
• Quick install: units fit on walls or in gardens.
• Heating and cooling in one device.
• Flexible financing and government grants often available.

Cons

• Efficiency drops in extreme cold.
• Outdoor unit noise—though modern models are whisper-quiet.
• Slightly higher running costs compared to ground source.

Megawave’s specialist service covers everything from an initial heat pump site survey to tailored system designs. And when you’re ready to get numbers, why not get your air source heat pump installation quote? It’s quick, clear, and completely transparent.

Ground Source Heat Pumps: Deep Dive Under Your Lawn

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) draw warmth from under your feet. Buried loops—horizontal or vertical boreholes—act like giant radiators, soaking up the earth’s constant temperature. The result? A super-efficient system that can deliver up to 4 kW of heat for every 1 kW of electricity.

Pros

• Ultra-high efficiency: big savings over time.
• Quiet operation—no noisy fans.
• Minimal maintenance: just annual checks.
• No visible equipment on the surface.

Cons

• Higher install cost due to drilling.
• Need garden space or vertical boreholes.
• Slightly more planning at the start.

Whether you’ve plenty of lawn for trenches or need vertical boreholes, your heat pump site survey will sort it out. Worried about permissions? Normally, no planning permission is needed since nothing shows above ground. Curious? Find out more about your heat pump site survey today

Comparing Costs, Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Still on the fence? Let’s break it down:

• Installation Cost
  • ASHP: £7,000–£11,000
  • GSHP: £15,000–£25,000
• Running Efficiency
  • ASHP: COP of 3–4 (300–400 %)
  • GSHP: COP of 4–5 (400–500 %)
• Space Requirements
  • ASHP: Wall-mounted or ground-level pad
  • GSHP: Trench system or boreholes
• Maintenance
  • ASHP: Annual filter and service check
  • GSHP: Annual pump and loop inspection
• Carbon Savings
  • Both systems cut emissions by up to 60 % vs. gas boilers.

Got questions about real costs? You can also get a heat pumps installation quotation tailored to you and compare quotes side by side.

Government Grants and Flexible Financing

You don’t have to go it alone on costs. The UK’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers up to £5,000 towards an ASHP and £6,000 towards a GSHP. Combine that with Megawave’s flexible finance plans, and monthly payments can be lower than your current energy bills.

• Zero deposit options.
• Competitive interest rates.
• No upfront cost for qualifying customers.

Make sustainable living affordable. And when you’re ready for a personalised figure, don’t forget to start your air source heat pump quote now for a no-obligation estimate.

Planning Your Installation: What to Expect

A seamless install hinges on great planning. Here’s our process:

1. Heat Pump Site Survey
   We’ll inspect insulation, roof space, garden access, and power supply.
2. Tailored System Design
   Matching pump size, loop layout, and controls to your home.
3. Project Scheduling
   We agree on dates, permits (if needed), and logistics.
4. Installation
   Our engineers set up heat exchangers, connect your system, and test performance.
5. Commissioning & Handover
   You get a full demo, system manual, and maintenance schedule.
6. Annual Maintenance Support
   Like a boiler service—but for your heat pump.

Before any drilling or piping, our team conducts a heat pump site survey to spot challenges early. No surprises. No stress.

Testimonials

“I used to dread sky-high winter bills. Since my ASHP install, I’m saving nearly 40% on energy costs. It’s whisper-quiet and the team were top-notch.”—John S., Cheshire

“Our old oil boiler was a nightmare. The ground source pump from Megawave slashed our carbon footprint. And that initial survey was so thorough.”—Emily R., Cornwall

“As an eco-enthusiast, I raved about renewable heating. This GSHP ticks every box. Low maintenance, reliable, and the grant cut my upfront spend.”—Michael T., Sussex

Conclusion: Make the Smart Choice

Air source or ground source? Both offer massive savings and carbon cuts. The best pick depends on your home, garden, and budget. But it all starts with a heat pump site survey. That one survey shows you the clear path to comfort and efficiency.

Ready for a greener, cheaper winter? Arrange your heat pump site survey today