A geothermal heat pump is a "green", energy-efficient option for those looking to heat and cool their homes. Geothermal heat pumps eliminate the use of fossil fuels and cut home heating and cooling bills by 30 to 70 percent. In fact, the reduced greenhouse gas emissions from the use of a geothermal heat pump is the equivalent of planting 750 trees or taking two cars off the road. They also eliminate noisy outdoor compressors and fans. Continue reading to learn more important facts about these year-round comfort systems!
How Do Geothermal Heat Pumps Work?
Geothermal heat pumps utilize the constant temperature below the Earth's surface to heat and cool homes or buildings. Unlike traditional heating and cooling systems that burn fossil fuels or use electric resistance, geothermal heat pumps use a series of underground pipes known as loops. These loops circulate a fluid, often a water-based solution, to exchange heat with the earth.
During the winter, the fluid absorbs heat from the ground and transfers it indoors, while in summer, it removes heat from the building and dissipates it into the earth. This is a cost-effective setup because it utilizes naturally existing energy rather than heat production through fuel combustion. Since the earth remains at a relatively constant temperature throughout the year, geothermal technology transfers this heat to buildings.
5 Facts About Geothermal Heat Pumps
Geothermal heat pumps utilize the constant temperature below the Earth's surface
Geothermal heat pumps provide a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to regulate indoor temperatures. One of the most impressive aspects of geothermal heat pumps is their ability to operate in any climate. Whether you live in a hot desert or a cold tundra, these systems can keep your home comfortable year-round without relying on fossil fuels or traditional heating and cooling methods. The Earth’s underground temperature is a constant (45 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the location) a residential geothermal heat pump can operate in any climate hot or cold.
Geothermal heat pumps are an investment
As geothermal heat pumps make use of the renewable heating and cooling of the earth, the monthly energy savings will pay back the cost of installation over time. We estimate that you can reduce your yearly heating and cooling costs by up to 80 percent! Plus, a home that costs less each month in heating and cooling costs is more valuable when it comes time to sell. This is great for long-term homeowners.
Geothermal heat pumps enjoy a long lifespan
The average lifespan of a geothermal heat pump is 25 years for its indoor units and 50 years for the system's ground loops. A traditional heat pump lasts between 10 to 15 years.
Geothermal heat pumps are eco-friendly
Geothermal systems are incredibly eco-friendly. They don’t use oil, natural gas, wood, or any other major fuel source to get their job done. They only transfer heat using the temperatures already present within the earth’s crust. This doesn’t harm the planet at all but merely takes advantage of a resource that is readily available under our feet at all times.
It works using an underground loop system
Horizontal vs vertical loops
Horizontal loops require a large ground space as they are buried in long trenches. The bigger your home, the more loops you’ll need to heat it. Vertical loops are used for smaller properties.
Closed vs Open Loop
Closed loop systems continuously circulate a heat transfer solution through buried or submerged plastic pipes. They recirculate the same fluid continuously, eliminating water wastage. An open loop system cleans ground water directly from a nearby well, river, or lake to an indoor geothermal heat pump. Once the cycle is complete, the water flows back into the water source.
In conclusion, geothermal heat pumps are an excellent investment for homeowners who want to save money on their energy bills while reducing their carbon footprint. They are incredibly eco-friendly and can operate in any climate, thanks to the constant temperature below the Earth's surface. Geothermal heat pumps have a long lifespan, outlasting traditional heat pumps by many years. They are also available in different loop systems, including horizontal and vertical loops, and closed and open loop systems, to suit any property size and water source availability. Ultimately, geothermal heat pumps provide homeowners with a cost-effective and sustainable way to heat and cool their homes while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing their home's resale value.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
