Air Source vs Ground Source Heat Pump | Which Is Right for You? | EcoSphere Energy
Buyer’s Guide · Heat Pump Types
Air Source vs Ground Source Heat Pumps
Both extract heat from the environment, but they work differently and suit different properties. Here is a plain-English guide to help you choose the right system for your home.
Side-by-Side Comparison
The two main types of heat pump compared across the factors that matter most to UK homeowners.
Air Source Heat Pump
How it works: Extracts heat from outdoor air, even at -15°C.
Installation: 1–2 days. No groundworks.
Cost: £10,000–£15,000 all-in before grant.
Grant: Up to £9,000 BUS grant available.
COP: 2.5–4.5 typically.
Best for: Most UK homes with adequate outdoor space for the unit.
Ground Source Heat Pump
How it works: Extracts heat from the ground via buried pipes (boreholes or trenches).
Installation: 1–2 weeks. Significant groundworks required.
Cost: £20,000–£35,000 all-in before grant.
Grant: Up to £7,500 BUS grant available.
COP: 3.5–5.0 typically.
Best for: Properties with large gardens or suitable ground conditions.
Which Is Right for Your Home?
For most homes in Devon, Somerset, and the South West, an air source heat pump is the better choice.
Choose Air Source If…
You have space outside for a unit (wall, garden, or patio). You want a simpler installation with less disruption. Your garden is small or the ground is rocky. You want the highest available grant (£9,000 vs £7,500 for ground source).
Consider Ground Source If…
You have a very large garden and significant budget. You are building a new property where groundworks can be scheduled efficiently. The property is off-grid with high heating demands and maximum efficiency is the priority.
Our Recommendation
EcoSphere Energy specialises in air source heat pumps. For the majority of South West homes — particularly rural oil and LPG properties — a well-designed air source system delivers excellent efficiency, lower installation cost, and the higher £9,000 grant.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme 2026
£9,000 for Air Source • £7,500 for Ground Source
The BUS grant is higher for air source heat pumps (£9,000) than ground source (£7,500). For most South West homes, air source is the financially better choice. We handle the complete grant application.
Check your eligibilityGet a Free Heat Pump Quote
Tell us about your home and we will recommend the right system, check your grant eligibility, and provide a no-obligation quote.