At Grant, we recognise the significance of selecting the most suitable heating system for your new- build home. When it comes to choosing the right heat pump, we understand that factors such as energy efficiency, compatibility with your space, sustainability and long-term cost savings are crucial. If you are deciding between an air source heat pump and ground source heat pump for your home, here’s everything you need to know:

How do heat pumps operate? 

Ground-Source Heat Pumps 

Ground source heat pumps operate by harnessing the stable temperatures found underground. They work by circulating a water-based solution through a series of buried pipes, called a ground loop, which absorbs natural heat from the ground. This heat is then transferred into the heat pump, where it is compressed to a higher temperature and used to warm your home.  

Air-Source Heat Pumps 

The Grant Aerona R290 air source heat pump range operates by extracting heat from the outside air to heat your home. Even in colder weather, ambient air contains heat energy. The heat pump captures this energy using the R290 refrigerant, which absorbs the heat as it passes through an outdoor unit. The refrigerant is then compressed to raise its temperature before transferring the heat to your home’s heating system, which can include radiators such as the Grant Afinia range, and Grant Uflex underfloor heating, or hot water supply. 

This system is efficient, sustainable, and reduces reliance on traditional fossil fuels, making it an effective year-round solution for climate control.  

The differences between an air source heat pump and a ground source heat pump 

In the early days of heat pumps, ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) were more common due to their superior efficiency. However, advancements in air source heat pump (ASHP) technology have allowed them to nearly match GSHP efficiency levels, with GSHPs achieving a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) of around 5.5 to 6, and ASHPs now reaching up to 5.4. One of the major distinctions lies in cost: GSHPs are generally much more expensive, often costing twice as much to supply and install. While ASHPs start from approximately €5,000/£5,000, GSHPs typically begin at €12,000/£15,000 and can often be significantly higher, making it unlikely for the additional expense of a GSHP to be offset over time. 

Additionally, GSHP installation requires specific soil conditions. If the soil is free-draining or overly marshy, it can lead to reduced performance and limit the amount of heat generated. This makes a soil assessment necessary before installation, and if the ground isn’t suitable, additional infrastructure such as a well might be required. GSHPs also demand space for the external pipework array, which means the land above cannot be built on afterward. Historically, GSHPs were more commonly installed in coastal areas, but ASHPs include all Grant heat pumps now feature treated casings designed to protect against salt air, making them a viable choice for seaside locations as well. 

Why choose the Grant Aerona R290 air source heat pump for your home? 

By choosing a Grant Aerona R290 air source heat pump for your home you will benefit from efficient and environmentally friendly home heating. Available in outputs of 4kW – 16kW, units within the range can deliver tailored solutions for homes of various sizes. With ultra-low noise levels and Quiet Mark accreditation, they ensure minimal disturbance while blending stylishly into any property with their durable, powder-coated black finish.  

The Aerona R290 range is powered by natural R290 refrigerant, which boasts excellent thermodynamic properties and an impressively low Global Warming Potential (GWP) value of just 3, significantly reducing carbon emissions. For user convenience, the Aerona Smart Controller enables easy system management, including remote access (with the Aerona Smart WiFi Hub) to adjust settings from anywhere. Additionally, these heat pumps include anti-freeze protection for the plate heat exchanger and a heated base tray, enhancing reliability even in colder weather. With Grant Aerona R290, you get high efficiency, low environmental impact, and user-friendly control—all in one advanced heating solution.  

Discover more about the Grant R290 Aerona air source heat pump range here.