What is a Geothermal Heat Pump?
By ProMatcher Staff
Heating with Geothermal Energy
Geothermal (ground-source or water-source) heat pumps absorb heat from an underground source and use it to heat the inside of your home. They use the Earth's natural heat so these systems operate very efficiently. There are both ground-source and water-source heat pumps available.
How does a heat pump work?
The heat pump pulls heat out of the ground or an underground body of water. It can then transfer the heat from the ground to the inside of your home by way of a series of buried pipes or coils. The coils or pipes are filled with water or a refrigerant that is able to absorb and transfer the heat.
Open loop systems vs. Closed loop systems
Geothermal heat pumps can operate with a closed loop or open loop system. A closed loop system circulates the same liquid in the pipes over and over again while an open loop system draws water out of an underground body of water like a well or reservoir.
Related Video: How a Heat Pump Works
Cost of Installing a Geothermal Heating System
These systems work best in a moderate climate. However, it is important to note that they will operate more efficiently in colder temperatures than an air-source heat pump. The cost of installation will vary based on the amount of excavation required to reach the underground area where temperatures are most ideal.
Geothermal heat pumps are more expensive to install than air-source heat pumps. However, due to the increased efficiency of geothermal heat pumps, you will quickly recoup the initial cost with subsequent energy savings. Also, you will save in maintenance costs because ground-source pumps are not exposed to the elements.
See the ProAnswer:
How long does a geothermal heat pump typically last?
Related: Cost of Heat Pump Installation
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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