Renewable Heating

Ground source heat pump specialists

As borehole drilling and geothermal heating specialists, we take care of every aspect of your GSHP project — from drilling your borehole through to final checks, certification and ongoing maintenance.

What is a ground source heat pump?

A ground source heat pump transfers heat from the ground outside your home or business to heat your underfloor heating or radiators. It can also heat water stored in a hot water cylinder for your hot taps and showers.

Almost anyone in the right geology can have a GSHP borehole system — including town properties, period homes and new builds. Systems can be linked to both radiators and underfloor heating.

Carbon savings: For the average GSHP system installed by Nicholls, 6.3 tonnes of carbon is saved in the first year alone. After 20 years, this rises to 155.5 tonnes — a 75% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

See the GSHP Process

Owner and Director Ben Nicholls explains the ins and outs of the ground source heat pump process — from initial survey to completed installation.

GSHP system types

Closed-loop

Vertical boreholes with sealed probes circulate a heat-transfer fluid through the ground. The most common system type, suitable for most sites. Probes typically go 100–200m deep.

Best for: most residential and commercial sites with limited space

Closed-loop design →

Open-loop

Water is abstracted from a borehole, passed through a heat exchanger, then returned to the ground via a second borehole. Can be significantly more efficient than closed-loop systems.

Best for: larger commercial projects with suitable aquifer conditions

Open-loop design →

River source

Water is abstracted from a river, canal or lake, filtered and passed through a heat exchanger before being returned downstream. Ideal for sites near watercourses.

Best for: sites close to rivers, canals or lakes with EA licensing

River source design →

Why choose a ground source heat pump?

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Lower running costs

A GSHP can produce approximately 4kW of heat for every 1kW of electricity used. Open-loop systems can be significantly more efficient still.

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Reduce carbon emissions

75% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to a gas boiler over 20 years. Equivalent to removing 75 cars from the road.

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Add property value

A GSHP system adds value to your property while protecting against future energy price rises and fossil fuel phase-outs.

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Low maintenance

GSHP systems have few moving parts and are largely maintenance-free. Our service team provides annual checks and ongoing support.

Learn more

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Flexible installation

Systems work in basements, under buildings before construction, in town properties and period homes. Our compact rigs fit through 5ft gaps.

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MCS certified

We are MCS approved suppliers, ensuring your installation meets the highest quality standards and qualifies for government incentives.

Funding: Boiler Upgrade Scheme

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides grants to support the installation of heat pumps and biomass boilers in England and Wales. As MCS-certified installers, we can help you access available grants to reduce the upfront cost of your GSHP system.

Ask us about funding options →