How Geothermal Heat Pumps Work

1. Ground source heat pumps provide heating, air conditioning, and, if so equipped, supply the house with hot water. They are smaller than a traditional heating/cooling unit and can easily be retrofitted into any home.  The mechanical components are safely located underground or within the home – which eliminates fears of vandalism or theft.  With extreme durability the parts can last a generation and require very little maintenance.  These systems do not have fans, so instead of hearing and feeling blasts of air, you will enjoy a quiet, consistent temperature throughout the day.  Geothermal heat pumps can even improve your health and reduce allergies because they excel at humidity control, thus there is a reduced chance for mold and mildew growth.

In addition to being practical and providing a luxurious atmosphere, geothermal heat pumps are exceptionally good for the environment and extremely safe.  These systems do not have on-site emissions or flammable materials.  By eliminating any combustion you do not have to worry about fumes, odors, or carbon monoxide in your home.  According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if just 100,000 homes converted to a geothermal heating and cooling system, carbon dioxide emissions could be reduced by 880 million pounds.  Currently, atmospheric CO2 is 30% higher than it was 200 years ago and if not reduced can cause serious detrimental global impacts.  Geothermal technology offers a wonderful solution to lowering these greenhouse gases. 

There has never been a better time to invest in a geothermal heat pump system.  Contrary to popular belief, geothermal units are surprisingly affordable and save you more and more money over time.  While investing in a geothermal unit is initially more expensive than a traditional system, the annual savings on energy bills more than compensates for the initial output and you can usually expect full payback in three to five years. With efficiency ratings at least three times higher than other heating and cooling systems it is estimated that you can save between 30 to 70% on heating and cooling costs.  Also, recent Congressional legislation has provided a 30% tax credit for the installed cost of a residential heat pump system, no cap.

When you consider the durability, comfort, cleanliness, and energy savings it is obvious why the government has endorsed them as the best systems for temperature control!

How does a Geothermal Heat Pump Work?

ge·o·ther·mal: of or using the heat of the earth's interior  

Ground source heat pumps provide heating, air conditioning, and, if so equipped, supply the house with hot water. They are smaller than a traditional heating/cooling unit and can easily be retrofitted into any home.  The mechanical components are safely located underground or within the home – which eliminates fears of vandalism or theft.  With extreme durability the parts can last a generation and require very little maintenance.  These systems do not have fans, so instead of hearing and feeling blasts of air, you will enjoy a quiet, consistent temperature throughout the day.  Geothermal heat pumps can even improve your health and reduce allergies because they excel at humidity control, thus there is a reduced chance for mold and mildew growth.

Ground source heat pumps provide heating, air conditioning, and, if so equipped, supply the house with hot water. They are smaller than a traditional heating/cooling unit and can easily be retrofitted into any home.  The mechanical components are safely located underground or within the home – which eliminates fears of vandalism or theft.  With extreme durability the parts can last a generation and require very little maintenance.  These systems do not have fans, so instead of hearing and feeling blasts of air, you will enjoy a quiet, consistent temperature throughout the day.  Geothermal heat pumps can even improve your health and reduce allergies because they excel at humidity control, thus there is a reduced chance for mold and mildew growth.

Above the ground we can expect to experience dramatic temperature changes throughout the year. However, just a few feet below the Earth's surface the temperature remains more constant at around 50 to 60°F. A geothermal heat pump takes advantage of these more mild temperatures through a series of pipes and a heat exchanger. 

In summer, the process is reversed. The underground loop draws excess heat from the house and allows it to be absorbed by the Earth. The system cools your home in the same way that a refrigerator keeps your food cool - by drawing heat from the interior, not by blowing in cold air.

As with any heat pump, geothermal and water-source heat pumps are able to heat, cool, and, if so equipped, supply the house with hot water. Some models of geothermal systems are available with two-speed compressors and variable fans for more comfort and energy savings. They are smaller than a traditional heating/cooling unit and can easily be retrofitted into any home.

Reba@GreenAirExpert.org

http://www.geothermalexperts.net

http://www.goeggsystems.com