This residential geothermal HVAC system can provide both heating and cooling.
A heat pump is an impressive device, and geothermal heat pumps represent the most advanced and most efficient form of heat pump technology. Before we explore how this HVAC system works, it's important to point out that geothermal heat pumps are also known as "ground-source" heat pumps. Also, a geothermal heat pump doesn't just provide whole-house heating. It also serves as the air conditioning system during hot weather. Some units can even supply domestic hot water, eliminating the need for a separate water heater.
To see if this multi-purpose home heating system is right for your home, call in Dr. Energy Saver! We will provide detailed proposals to solve energy inefficiency and lower utility costs in your home.
Just like the refrigerator in your kitchen (a small-scale heat pump system), a geothermal heat pump depends on the unique properties of refrigerant compounds (such as Freon™ and Puron™) that are pumped through evaporative and condensing cycles to absorb and release heat. A refrigerant's ability to boil at a relatively low temperature helps to facilitate the heat transfer process.
Ground-source heat pumps take advantage of the fairly consistent temperature of the earth at depths below 6 feet or so. Whether it's sunny or freezing outside, ground temperature at this depth remains around 50-65°F. That's warm enough to turn liquid refrigerant into a gas. When this phase change occurs, heat is absorbed (The same phase change effect makes us feel cool when sweat evaporates from our bodies.)
The refrigerant gas now gets pumped through a compressor, which increases the temperature of the gas by putting in under pressure. (Did you ever notice how hot a bicycle pump gets when your pumping action puts air under pressure?) The hot refrigerant vapor moves indoors to heating coils located in the HVAC system's air handler. As the refrigerant gives up its heat to the interior air and is allowed to expand, it condenses back into a liquid and the cycle repeats. During the cooling season, the cycle reverses so that interior heat can be absorbed and pumped to the earth.
The best way to decide upon a heating system for your home is with the help of the professionals at Dr. Energy Saver. Our knowledgeable contractors will quickly assess your home's energy needs and explain the benefits of a certain system, whether it is geothermal or another heat source. Contact your local dealer today!
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