How Do Geothermal Heat Pump Systems Work?
Tuesday, December 8th, 2009 at 3:49 pmUsing the Power of the Earth
Nearly half the solar energy our planet receives is absorbed by the ground. As a result, below the surface the earth remains a constant moderate temperature year-round. This provides an ideal source for heating and cooling your home. Geothermal systems use a sealed underground piping loop filled with circulating water and an ultra high-efficiency heat pump to exchange heat between your home and the earth.
In the winter, the earth is your source of heat. Water circulating in the piping loop absorbs heat from the earth and carries it to the heat pump, where it is concentrated and sent as warm, comfortable air throughout your home.
In the summer, the earth is your source of cooling. The heat pump absorbs heat from the air in your home and transfers it to water circulating in the piping loop where it is absorbed by the earth. This provides cool, dehumidified and comfortable air throughout your home.
How Geothermal Saves You Money
Unlike traditional systems that use the air to heat and cool your home, geothermal heat pump systems circulate water through a system of sealed underground piping loops that carry heat to and from the earth to the system. In the heating mode, the system uses the heat from the water to warm air that circulates throughout the house. In the cooling mode, the system reverses the process, taking heat out of the home’s air and circulating the resulting cool, dehumidified air instead.
Because the system has less work to do to reach the desired temperature setting throughout the year, the system is highly efficient and lowers operating costs. A fossil fuel furnace may be 80% to 90% percent efficient; a geothermal heat pump is amazingly 450% efficient.
Another advantage to a geothermal system installed in a new home is that from day one you will be cash flow positive, as the cost of the system each month is lower than the savings you realize on your monthly energy cost!
Tags: Energy Efficiency, geothermal heat pump systems, green building, Sustainability, Sustainable Construction
