Do ground and air source heat pumps add value to my house?

As homeowners look for better and cheaper ways to heat their homes, ground and air source heat pumps are gaining a lot of attention.

Investors and those looking to add value to properties are also installing heat pumps as a way to make homes more attractive to buyers.

This article explains what ground and air source heat pumps are, whether they add value to your property, and offers guidance on how to choose between ground source and air source.

What are ground and air source heat pumps?

Heat pumps are a form of renewable heating that capture heat from natural sources and use it to heat your home. Both types of heat pumps work in similar ways, but ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) take heat from the ground while air source heat pumps (ASHPs) take it from the air.

They can also do the same thing in reverse, taking heat from inside the home and releasing it into the ground or air to cool your house.

Here’s a closer look at both heat pumps:

Ground source heat pump

The temperature just below the Earth’s surface remains steady all year and isn’t really affected by temperature changes above ground.

Ground source heat pumps take advantage of this fact and use the ground as a heat-storing device, taking heat from it in the colder months and moving heat into it in warmer months.

Air source heat pump

In much the same way, air source heat pumps take heat from the air and bring it inside to keep you warm. In hotter months, they remove heat from the home and release it into the air outside.

Because the air is readily accessible – unlike the ground – these pumps are typically cheaper to install. However, with the air’s temperature being much less constant, they’re not as efficient to run.

Do ground and air source heat pumps add value to your house?

In short, yes. According to a recent report issued by Scottish Power in collaboration with WWF, ground and air source heat pumps could increase your property value by up to 3%, besides cutting your home’s carbon emissions by 90%.

This translates to a price increase of about £8,000 based on average property values. Homeowners also enjoy significant savings on energy bills with a ground or air source heat pump fitted, which can contribute to the perceived value of the property.

How heat pumps impact property value

Besides being a comfortable and efficient way to heat and cool your home, installing this technology can drive up your property’s value. Below, we explore how each type of heat pump impacts valuations.

Air source heat pumps

Here are some of the ways this kind of heat pump can add value to your house:

• Energy efficiency: ASHPs lower the operating costs of properties by producing heat efficiently. This can translate to a higher asking price because of the cost savings the buyer will enjoy in the future

• Environmentally friendly: As an eco-friendly solution, ASHPs are attractive to environmentally conscious buyers. You can leverage the unique selling point of a low carbon footprint to justify a higher price tag
• Consistent comfort: Heat pumps are better at heating and cooling homes compared with traditional heating systems. This can appeal to buyers who want effective and consistent climate control

Ground source heat pumps

Here are some of the ways a ground source heat pump can add value to your house:

• Energy efficiency: Like air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps are also extremely efficient compared to typical heating systems. Because GSHPs tap into a more stable source of heat, they’re even more efficient than air source heat pumps, leading to greater cost savings

• Improved perception: GSHPs are a modern, effective and efficient way to heat and cool homes. Investing in this kind of luxurious innovation can improve your property’s perceived value in the eyes of the market

• Low maintenance, high longevity: GSHPs require very little maintenance and last for a long time because their components are mainly underground, protected from the elements. This can be a selling point for buyers looking for a high-quality, low-maintenance system

• Environmentally friendly: Homes that incorporate renewable energy systems are increasingly attractive to modern buyers as they drastically reduce carbon footprints. You can position your property as a future-focused investment by forefronting its environmentally friendly features

• Consistent comfort: Homeowners get to enjoy the system while living in the property, which can make your property more desirable, and therefore, more valuable

Deciding which heat pump to use

It’s important to understand your requirements when selecting a heat pump, as one may offer significant advantages over the other depending on your situation. Ground source heat pumps, for example, require space for underground pipes, which some properties don’t have.

Air source heat pumps also require planning permission in some cases, so be sure to run the project by your local council before committing to anything.

Ground source heat pumps are typically the best option when the following apply:

• You have enough space
• You’re willing to make a long-term investment
• You’re prepared to pay the extra cost
• You want a quieter system
• You want low maintenance

On the other hand, air source heat pumps may be more suitable if the following apply:

• You have limited space
• You want a lower initial investment
• You want fast installation
• You want a faster ROI
• You want a less intrusive solution

These aren’t the only things to consider, but they’re some of the main points of concern for most people.

Navigating installation

If you think ground or air source heat pumps can enhance your property’s value, here are some steps you can take to successfully navigate the installation process:

1. Determine your requirements

First, consider your requirements and your property’s suitability. The main factors to consider are your property’s size and the ground conditions. If you have space for either system, consider the pros and cons of each and decide what works for you.

2. Understand cost and maintenance

Understanding how much each system will cost to install and maintain will help you make an informed decision and calculate long-term energy savings. ASHPs are typically cheaper, but offer a lower ROI. Also, be sure to research government grants and incentives to see if you could get some help with the initial investment.

3. Find a reliable contractor

The most important step by far is selecting a reliable local contractor, as this ensures you get the job done correctly. Enter your postcode into the search box below to explore Checkatrade Approved local talent.