What is a Geothermal Heating System?
One of the most cost effective, long-term
solutions for heating and cooling is the ground-source heat pump,
more commonly known as a geothermal heating system. This system uses
the natural capacity of the earth's soil or groundwater to store
heat, capturing this heat and translating it to homes and other
buildings.
The groundwater and soil of the earth maintains a rather constant
temperature a few feet below the ground surface making geothermal
systems a reliable technology for heating and even for cooling.
While new construction may incorporate geothermal heating, this type
of system can be retrofitted into existing buildings and homes for
heating and cooling and even providing a hot water source. You can
reduce your energy foot print, save money on your utility bill and
do your part in reducing pollution by relying less on fossil fuels.
Most geothermal heating systems transfer the heat from groundwater
or soil through the use of a matrix of tubes called closed loops or
open loops. Closed loops use antifreeze and water solution
circulating through what is called a ground loop which allows for
the extraction of heat from the earth. Open loops use well water to
use as the source of heat and once used is returned to another well
or a drainage compartment.
Each geothermal heating system contains a ground loop, an indoor
heat pump, and a flow center which links the outdoor and indoor
heating equipment together. The heat pump removes the heat from one
location (the earth) and deposits it to another (the home) using the
ground loop as the conduit for transfer. The open or closed loop
systems constantly transfer the liquid over and over to maintain the
transference of heat. The beauty of geothermal heating systems is
that they can be used for almost any size home.
Cooling is also accomplished during warm seasons using the
geothermal heating system. In this instance, the process of drawing
heat into the home is reversed. The system draws heat away from the
home and transferred into the earth for absorption. This geothermal
process is a lot more energy efficient than a regular air
conditioner for keeping the home cool during warmer weather.
The size of the geothermal heating system will dictate the cost you
can expect to pay. The approximate amount can vary from $3,000 to
$8,000 but the system lasts much longer than traditional heating and
cooling methods – about 30 years! In comparison, traditional central
air and heating systems run about $3,000 to $4,000 and cost more per
month to operate than geothermal units.
If you are in the process of planning to build or remodel a home, it
is the perfect opportunity to consider incorporating a geothermal
heating system. Not only is it more energy efficient to heat and
cool your home, it is also a "green" technology. Jump on the
eco-friendly bandwagon and save money in the long run too!
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
iapsales.com LLC - a family business specializing in HVAC products. We
are distributors of
Qmark Heaters,
electric tankless water heaters,
bathroom heaters,
patio heaters, electric heaters,
portable air
conditioners & electric towel warmers. Shop on line at
www.heateroutlet.com for these great home improvement products.
Iapsales.com LLC was established in 2003 and is the sister company to
Innovative Air Products located in historical Exeter, NH. We are a 2nd
generation manufacturers’ rep firm dedicated to providing residential &
commercial heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. We offer
a great selection online at the lowest prices anywhere. We can also be
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