SolarPlus Solar Panels Ireland Solar water heating offer Solar heating system

What alternatives are available?

SolarPlus - Alternatives.

We at SolarPlus researched workable alternative energy efficient heating systems.
We look at the most common systems in use in Ireland today.

Geothermal heat pump (sometimes called a ground source heat pump).

These systems operate based on the stability of underground temperatures: the ground a few feet below surface has a very stable temperature throughout the year. (depending on soil types, moisture etc..)
A geothermal system differs from a conventional boiler by its ability to transfer heat instead of the standard method of generating heat.

Pros : Can be efficient if installed correctly with a suitably sized heat pump.

Negatives :

• Not suitable in a retrofitting situation. New Construction only.
• Heat pump size is very important. Too small results in extended running of motor.
• Heat pump size is very important. Larger pumps draw higher current.
• Installation is very expensive resulting in a very long (or never) payback.
• Site sizes: Large area needed for heat exchange coils.