Heat Pumps — Two Main Technologies
A heat pump is the most efficient way to heat a building. It transfers heat from the environment (air or ground) into the home, using only electricity to drive the compressor.
How Does a Heat Pump Work?
A heat pump is a reversed refrigerator. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the source, the compressor raises temperature and pressure, the refrigerant releases heat to heating water, then returns to start the cycle.
Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP)
Extracts heat from outdoor air via a fan-driven heat exchanger.
Pros: Lower installation cost, fast mounting (1-3 days), no large plot needed, cooling in summer.
Cons: Lower efficiency below -15°C, outdoor unit noise (35-50 dB), higher winter consumption.
Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP)
Extracts heat from ground via vertical boreholes or horizontal collectors.
Pros: Constant COP year-round, highest efficiency, silent, lowest operating costs, free passive cooling.
Cons: High installation cost, requires suitable terrain, longer installation, geological permit needed.
Technical Comparison
| Parameter | Air Source | Ground (boreholes) | Ground (collector) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average annual COP | 3.2 – 4.0 | 4.5 – 5.5 | 4.0 – 4.8 |
| COP at -15°C | 1.8 – 2.5 | 4.0 – 4.5 | 3.5 – 4.2 |
| Total cost | €10,500 – €16,300 | €21,000 – €34,000 | €15,000 – €22,000 |
| Noise | 35 – 50 dB | < 30 dB | < 30 dB |
| Lifespan | 15 – 20 years | 20 – 25+ years | 20 – 25+ years |
Annual Operating Costs
150 m² home, 12,000 kWh/year heating demand:
| Heat Source | Annual Cost | CO2 Emissions |
|---|---|---|
| Gas boiler | €1,500 | 2,400 kg |
| Air source HP (COP 3.8) | €600 | 1,050 kg |
| Ground source HP (COP 4.8) | €490 | 830 kg |
| GSHP + PV | €140 | 150 kg |
When to Choose Air Source?
Limited budget, small plot, existing building retrofit, moderate climate.
When to Choose Ground Source?
New construction, large plot, harsh winters, lowest long-term costs priority, need for passive cooling, silence.
FNC Poland performs free thermal analysis and recommends the optimal heat pump type for your home.
