Eco-friendly Ground Source
Ground Source Heat Pump Installation Shaftesbury, Blandford & Across Dorset
Ground Source Heat Pumps extract heat from the surrounding environment, whether it be the air or the ground, and transfer it to the water in your home’s central heating system and hot water cylinder. If you’re considering ground source heat pump installation in Dorset, you’ll be choosing a highly efficient and sustainable energy solution for your home.
Ideal for ‘off the grid’ properties, Ground Source Heat Pumps can be installed in new builds or as part of a renovation project. The more insulated and draft-proof your home is, the more efficiently the system will run, saving you money and further lowering your carbon footprint.
Two types of Heat Pump installation in Dorset, Shaftesbury, Blandford Forum & surrounding areas…
- Air Source: This absorbs heat from the air. Heat is present in the air to temperatures as low as -25°C, so even on coldest UK days your home is kept warm. Air Source Heat Pumps require a unit to be installed outside your home on a 2m x 2m area.
- Ground Source: This absorbs heat from the earth. Heat can be up to 10°C just 2m below the ground even in winter. Ground Source Heat Pumps require coils to be laid either vertically or horizontally into the ground and a fridge sized unit installed inside your home.
A heat pump operates the water in your central heating system at a lower temperature compared to traditional systems. As a result, heat pumps typically run for longer periods throughout the day. They are particularly well-suited for underfloor heating or larger radiator installations.
Heat pumps are part of a variety of renewable technologies eligible for the Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). As accredited MCS installers, Ace Energy is the ideal partner to help you maximize the benefits of your heat pump.
Heating your home with oil or LPG?
From 21 July 2026, eligible off-grid homes replacing an oil or LPG heating system can claim an increased Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant of £9,000, up from the standard £7,500. This uplift is available until March 2027. Get in touch to find out whether your property qualifies.
Benefits of Ground Source Heat Pumps
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Lower Fuel Bills
Heat pumps provide central heating that is more cost-effective to operate compared to traditional systems, and they eliminate the need for gas connections or inconvenient fuel deliveries.
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Greater Safety
Heat pumps provide heating while minimising user risk, as they do not rely on flammable or asphyxiating fuels during operation
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Eco-friendly
Heat pumps positively affect your carbon footprint. Although they need some electricity to operate, it is significantly less than what traditional boilers consume. To promote renewable systems, the government provides a £7,500 grant towards the total cost of your installation through their Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Our qualified team is ready to assist you throughout the process.
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Low Maintenance
Heat pumps are a dependable heat source with fewer moving parts compared to traditional combustion systems. To maintain efficiency, extend their lifespan, and uphold the manufacturer’s warranty, heat pumps should be serviced annually. Ace Energy offers excellent servicing packages. For more information, please click here.
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0% VAT
As a homeowner you’ll pay 0% VAT on domestic Ground Source Heat Pump installations.
Requirements for Ground Source Heat Pumps
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Up to Date EPC
<strong>Please note:</strong> as of April 2026, if your EPC is out of date you no longer need to apply for a new one to be eligible for the BUS grant. Alternative evidence such as a recent utility bill or photos of your existing heating system can be used instead. Where a valid EPC does exist, this will still be used as the primary evidence.
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Measurements
Using measurements or floorplans, our team calculates the heat loss of your home. This is the energy lost through windows, doors, floors, and other areas that your heat pump will need to compensate for to keep your home warm. This process ensures we recommend the correctly sized pump and heat emitters for your needs.
Extremely efficient and helpful when installing our underfloor heating and air source heat pump. Both work brilliantly! Many Thanks.
Mr Barnett
Warminster, Wiltshire
A very competitive, professional quote covering all aspects of the works to be done. All works were carried out within the planned time frames. All employees were friendly, helpful & professional. Very satisfied with the advice from the beginning, and the installation. We would not hesitate in recommending Ace Energy.
Mr & Mrs Brown
Wiltshire
Replace the boiler with an air source heat pump in my Victorian cottage. Ben visited several times to advise & reassure as I'm a pedantic old chap; things have to be right. They turned up & did the job in the time they said. Hard-working, polite & oh so professional.
Mr R King
Todber, Dorset
Ground Source Heat Pump FAQs
What is a ground source heat pump and how does it work?
A ground source heat pump (GSHP) extracts heat from the ground using a series of buried pipes. It uses this natural warmth to heat your home and hot water. It works a bit like a fridge in reverse – clever and eco-friendly!
Is my property suitable for a ground source heat pump?
Most properties with outside space are suitable, but it depends on things like soil type, garden size (for horizontal loops), or whether you have room for a borehole (vertical loop). We’ll carry out a full survey to advise you.
How much outdoor space do I need?
For horizontal loops, you’ll need a decent-sized garden – typically twice the floor area of your home. If space is tight, vertical boreholes are a great option, needing only a few square metres of surface space.
How much does installation cost?
Costs vary depending on the system type and ground conditions, but expect anywhere from £15,000. While the upfront cost is higher than traditional systems, running costs are lower, and grants are often available.
Are there any government grants or incentives?
Yes! In England and Wales, you may be eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which currently offers £7,500 towards installation costs. Scotland has its own schemes – we’ll help you find the right one.
How long does ground source heat pump installation take?
Installation typically takes 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the groundworks involved. Borehole installations are often quicker than horizontal systems. We'll always give you a clear timeline before starting.
Will my garden be dug up?
Yes, some digging is needed for the ground loops – especially with horizontal systems. But we take great care to restore your garden as neatly as possible once the work’s done.
Do I need planning permission?
In most cases, ground source heat pumps fall under permitted development in the UK, so no planning permission is needed. However, listed buildings or conservation areas might need special consent – we’ll check this for you.
What kind of heating system works best with a GSHP?
Ground source heat pumps work most efficiently with underfloor heating or large radiators, as they operate at lower temperatures than gas boilers. They can still work with standard radiators – we’ll assess your setup.
How efficient are ground source heat pumps?
They’re incredibly efficient! For every unit of electricity used, a GSHP can produce 3 to 4 units of heat – that’s 300–400% efficiency. It’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and your energy bills.
