Unlike other HVAC systems that heat up your indoor air, a geothermal heat pump draws its heat from the earth. How does a geothermal heat pump function and what are its benefits in your Cantonment, FL, home?
What Is a Geothermal Heat Pump and How Does It Operate?
A geothermal heat pump taps energy from the heat stored underground. Therefore, it is very efficient in saving your cooling and heating costs. Unlike outdoor air, temperature below the surface of the earth remains constant, leading to less wear and tear on the heat pump’s components.
The geothermal heat pump has three major components that increase its efficiency. There is the conduit, which is responsible for creating the pathway between the condensing coil and the earth’s surface, and it acts as the main medium of heat transfer.
The air distribution network, also known as the blower, is responsible for pulling the stale indoor air. It then returns the conditioned air into every room through the supply ductwork.
Finally, the condensing unit houses the condensing coil, the compressor and other components that support the refrigeration cycle. The geothermal heat pumps and traditional models have similar characteristics. However, its system utilizes a loop-style heat exchanger. Different types of geothermal heat pumps can provide air conditioning, radiant heating and forced-air heating.
Types of Geothermal Heat Pumps
The geothermal heat exchanger attaches to the earth’s surface through a polyethylene piping system. Various heat pumps include the closed-loop and open-loop designs. The closed-loop is popular, and it uses a water-based antifreeze substance that circulates through small-diameter and high-density polyethylene underground piping systems.
In a closed-loop system, vertical loops are excellent for small space areas while horizontal loops are effective for large spaces. These underground pipes lie at the bottom of the pond or lake, and they are efficient in capturing the geothermal energy.
Open-loop systems work best in areas that have plenty of water with low mineral contents. Therefore, you can install the open-loop system near a well or in an area with open water sources. Some of the advantages of a geothermal heat pump are available below.
Energy Efficient and Cost Effective
In Cantonment, FL, the outdoor temperatures vary greatly during summer and the winter seasons. However, underground temperatures remain constant throughout the year. The geothermal heat pump helps to save energy due to the stability of the earth’s underground temperatures.
This type of system can save you up to 40% in terms of your utility costs compared to other conventional heat pumps. The installation price of a geothermal heat pump is several times compared to installing a traditional heat pump with the same heating and cooling capacity. It’s estimated that you will receive a return of your investment within five to 10 years.
Environmentally Friendly
A geothermal heat pump is the best option for lowering your carbon footprint. It helps to preserve the environment because it has reduced fuel consumption rates and gives off low emissions. The EPA recognizes geothermal heat pumps as the most environmental and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems available currently.
Geothermal heat pumps will minimize the destruction that results from acidic rain, greenhouse effects, air pollution and other challenges brought about by burning fossil fuels. Studies show that installing a single geothermal unit has the same effect as planting hundreds of trees.
Longer Life Cycle
Professionals can guarantee that a typical heating and cooling system will last about 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance services. Geothermal heat pumps are not in contact with the atmosphere, so there is much less noticeable wear and tear on the components of the system. The geothermal heat pump’s indoor components consist of a fan, compressor and pump, which can last for several decades, while the earth loop can last for 50 years or longer.
Our company will provide a warranty cover of up to 50 years on your geothermal pipes. If you reside in Cantonment, FL, contact us at Lunsford Air Conditioning & Heating for geothermal installation and maintenance services.
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