Are you considering installing a ground source heat pump in your home? It is one of the most effective heating solutions available on the Polish market. From our many years of experience at Onninen, we know that choosing a heating system is a strategic decision that affects the operating costs of the building for many years. In this article, we will answer the key question - is a ground source heat pump a worthwhile investment in Polish climatic conditions.
Ground source heat pumps are gaining increasing popularity among Polish homeowners. In Onninen's assortment, you will find a wide selection of ground source heat pumps from renowned manufacturers such as NIBE and Galmet. Each of the units we offer stands out for its high energy efficiency and reliability in Polish operating conditions.
Check ground source heat pumps at Onninen wholesale
Why is a ground source heat pump the most efficient heating solution?
Ground source heat pumps utilize the stable ground temperature below the frost zone, which ranges from 2°C to 10°C throughout the year. This stability ensures high energy efficiency regardless of the atmospheric conditions on the surface. In Onninen's offer, you will find models with a COP coefficient ranging from 4.0 to 5.3, which means that from one kWh of electrical energy, you can obtain up to 5.3 kWh of thermal energy.
Operating costs in 2024-2025
Recent heating cost analyses show that ground source heat pumps are currently the cheapest source of heat in Poland. For a building with an area of 150 m², the annual heating costs with a ground source heat pump amount to approximately 4,600 PLN when cooperating with a floor heating system.
In comparison, the costs of alternative heat sources are as follows:
- Natural gas: about 6,400 PLN per year
- Heating oil: about 8,450 PLN per year
- Eco-pea coal: about 5,200 PLN per year
- Air source heat pump: about 5,300 PLN per year
How does a ground source heat pump compare to an air source heat pump?
Comparing both types of heat pumps available in Onninen's offer, ground systems show an advantage in several key areas. A ground source heat pump can consume 25% to 50% less electrical energy than an air source heat pump of comparable efficiency.
Main advantages of ground source heat pumps
- Stable operation throughout the year - regardless of external temperature
- Higher energy efficiency - COP coefficient up to 5.3
- Silent operation - no external unit generating noise
- Ability to provide passive cooling in summer without additional energy costs
- Long lifespan - 20-25 years of trouble-free operation
Challenges associated with installing a ground source heat pump
The main barrier is the higher initial investment cost. In our offer, ground source heat pumps cost from 40,000 to 90,000 PLN including installation. An additional cost is geological drilling, which can cost up to 20,000 PLN. It also requires a suitably sized plot and permits for drilling.
Which ground source heat pumps do we recommend at Onninen?
In Onninen's assortment, you will find ground source heat pumps from leading global brands. We offer NIBE models from the F1245 and F1345 series with powers ranging from 6 kW to 60 kW, as well as Galmet pumps from the Maxima GT series with powers ranging from 7.3 kW to 41.3 kW. Each unit available in our wholesale is characterized by a high energy efficiency class of A++ or A+++.
Popular models in Onninen's offer
| Model | Heating power | Power type | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galmet Maxima Compact 7 GT | 7.3 kW | 3-phase, 400V C.O. | + D.H.W. with a 170l tank |
| NIBE F1245-12 E | 12 kW | 3-phase, 400V C.O. | + D.H.W. with a 180l tank |
| NIBE S1256-18 EM | 18 kW | 3-phase, 400V C.O. | + D.H.W. with a 180l tank |
All models available at Onninen are equipped with built-in thermal energy meters, allowing for precise monitoring of energy consumption and optimization of operating costs.
What subsidies can be obtained for a ground source heat pump in 2025?
Poland currently offers several subsidy programs supporting investments in renewable energy sources. Our advisors at Onninen regularly inform clients about available forms of financial support.
Main subsidy programs
- The "My Heat" program - up to 21,000 PLN subsidy for a ground source heat pump (30-45% of eligible costs)
- The "Clean Air" program - up to 50,900 PLN for a heat pump with an increased efficiency class
- The "My Electricity" program - from 4,400 to 28,500 PLN with simultaneous installation of photovoltaics
- Thermo-modernization relief - deduction of up to 53,000 PLN of expenses from tax
From our experience, a combination of different forms of support can cover up to 60% of the total investment costs, significantly shortening the payback period of financial outlays.
When is a ground source heat pump the best choice?
Based on the many years of experience of our specialists at Onninen, a ground source heat pump performs best in the following situations:
Optimal conditions for a ground source heat pump
- New buildings with high energy standards (EP index ≤ 55 kWh/(m²×year))
- Large plots allowing for horizontal exchangers or vertical drilling
- Low-temperature heating systems (floor heating, low-temperature radiators)
- Long-term planning - a minimum of 15 years of use
- Higher initial budget with the prospect of long-term savings
In older buildings with poorer energy standards, modernizing thermal insulation combined with an air source heat pump available in Onninen's offer may often be a better choice.
Payback period for investment in a ground source heat pump
Analyzing the actual operating costs of our clients, the payback period for investment in a ground source heat pump in Polish conditions averages 7-10 years. After accounting for subsidies, this period can be shortened to 5-7 years, especially when compared to gas or oil heating.
Example calculation for a 150 m² house
Assuming an annual energy demand of 12,000 kWh and a COP=4.5:
- Annual electricity consumption: 2,667 kWh
- Annual cost at an electricity price of 0.69 PLN/kWh: about 1,840 PLN
- Savings compared to gas: about 4,560 PLN per year
- Payback period with a cost difference of 30,000 PLN: about 6.5 years
Frequently asked questions
1. Will a ground source heat pump work in the Polish climate?
Yes, a ground source heat pump is one of the most effective solutions in the Polish climate. The ground temperature below the frost zone remains stable throughout the year (2-10°C), ensuring stable and high system efficiency regardless of freezing winters or heat waves.
2. How much does it cost to install a ground source heat pump?
The cost of a ground source heat pump ranges from 40,000 to 90,000 PLN including installation. The largest share of costs comes from geological drilling (up to 20,000 PLN). Available subsidies can cover up to 60% of total expenses, significantly reducing the actual investment cost.
3. What is the difference in operating costs between a ground source and an air source heat pump?
A ground source heat pump consumes 25-50% less electrical energy than an air source. For a 150 m² house, the difference in annual costs is about 700-1,000 PLN in favor of the ground source heat pump, which over a 20-year operating period results in savings of 14,000-20,000 PLN.
4. Do I need a large plot for a ground source heat pump?
It depends on the type of ground exchanger. A horizontal exchanger requires an area about 1.5-2 times larger than the heated building's area. A vertical exchanger (drilling) takes up much less space but is more expensive to implement - it requires about 2-3 drillings with a depth of 80-100 meters.
5. How many years does a ground source heat pump last?
A ground source heat pump lasts 20-25 years with proper operation. The ground exchanger can operate without failure for even 40-50 years, making this investment particularly worthwhile in the long term. In Onninen's offer, you will find models with long-term manufacturer warranties.
6. Can a ground source heat pump cool the house in summer?
Yes, a ground source heat pump offers passive and active cooling functions. Passive cooling utilizes the lower ground temperature (it is practically free), while active cooling operates on the principle of reversed refrigeration cycle. This is an additional benefit compared to traditional heating systems.
Professional heating solutions at Onninen
Investing in a ground source heat pump in Polish conditions is definitely worthwhile, especially with long-term planning and utilizing available forms of financial support. From our experience at Onninen, clients choosing ground heating systems achieve significant operational savings after just a few years of use.
In Onninen's offer, you will find comprehensive solutions - from selecting the right heat pump model, through professional technical advice, to support in the process of applying for funding. Our team of experts will help you choose the optimal system tailored to the specifics of your building and heating needs.
We invite you to contact our specialists or visit one of our branches across Poland. Together, we will find the best heating solution for your home that will provide thermal comfort for many years at minimal operating costs.