Understanding Geothermal Heating Dressing Your Home

January 22nd, 2012 by Matthew Kirkhope

Understanding Geothermal Heating

For nearly two decades now, geothermal heating is one technology that has been begging for acceptance from the general public. Presently, little glimmers of hope are beginning to appear at the end of the tunnel for developers of this unique technology. This however is a result of change in attitudes and improvement in technologies. This does not mean that a lot of sales are being recorded as far as geothermal systems are concerned; it is just that there has been an increase in the number of people taking notice and actually making purchases of the system. This means that gradually, geothermal is gaining recognition and acceptance. Geothermal heat pumps, also called ground-source pumps were actually invented in the 1940s. They were designed to make use of the earth’s constant temperature as exchange medium instead of making use of the outside air temperature. This is why geothermal heat pumps maintain 300% to 600% efficiencies on very cold nights unlike the air-source heating systems that do not exceed 175% to 250% efficiency. You may not know this but research has confirmed that whether we are experiencing extreme seasonal temperatures – extremely hot or sub-zero cold, the ground maintains a constant temperature just a few feet from the surface of the earth. What this means is that during winter, the ground temperature is found to be warmer than the outside air while during summer the temperature becomes cooler than the air outside too. This is exactly how the geothermal heating system distinguishes itself by utilizing these unique features of the earth through a ground heat exchanger. It depends on how your geothermal heating system is programmed but it is a technology that is designed to not only cool your home but to also heat and where possible, supply the whole house with hot water. There are designs that come with variable fans and two-speed compressors which enhances its convenient and energy saving features. There are still lots of features and advantages of installing and making use of the geothermal heating system that makes it a better option than the air-source heat pumps. When compared to the air-source heat pumps, you will find out that the geothermal heating system makes less noise. Also, they need less maintenance in comparison to the other type of heat pumps. In terms of sourcing their temperature, they do not rely on the temperature or air outside; they source within the earth’s confines – the ground source. It is a fact that when it comes to the cost of installing a geothermal heating system, it is several times more expensive than the installation of air-source heating systems but it has more advantages. Its ability to save energy would, within a period of 5 or 10 years, make up for whatever expenses you may have incurred in the course of installing it. Its lifespan is one that is estimated to be at 50 years plus for the ground loop system and 25 years for the inside components. Save energy and cash today by installing a geothermal heating system in your home. Need a local expert? For FREE estimates, click here!

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