Among the numerous heating solutions in the industry, geothermal heat pumps are frequently regarded to be among the most energy-efficient options. Given that it absorbs heat from the ground beneath, these devices have demonstrated exceptional heating and cooling capabilities time and time again. Despite these abilities, however, knowledge of its cost-saving technology is still low, preventing many users from leveraging these systems.
Our blog this week dives into the top 5 must-knows about geothermal heating. Keep reading to discover the best of heat pump options!
.jpg?width=667&name=Untitled%20design%20(34).jpg)
It works like a fridge
Refrigerators operate by removing heat from a property’s interior environment and transfers it to the kitchen. Similarly, heat pumps transfer heat from the ground to a given property and reverses this process when it needs to be cooled in the summer.
This is done through a number of long-looped underground pipes filled with either water or antifreeze solution. These are hooked onto the heat pump, which thereafter acts as both a furnace or air conditioner, depending on the climate.
When it’s hot, this liquid pulls heat from the ground and delivers it to the geothermal heating and cooling unit, before being passed onto the refrigerant coils. Heat is then distributed through a forced-air or hydronic system.
When it’s colder, this process takes place in reverse. Heat is removed from a property and transferred to the earth. Geothermal heat pumps also power up hot water and underground heating systems.
Geothermal heating is effective in every kind of climate
In geothermal heating systems, pipes are buried far underneath the ground for climate-protected heat exchange. Given that the earth’s constant underground temperature varies between 45°-75°F, depending on location, geothermal heat pumps work perfectly in both the summer and winter.
This, in particular, is what makes geothermal heating such an effective option - they dispel one of the biggest drawbacks associated with air source heat pumps. Given the tempestuous nature of the Australian climate, having a device that performs well in every season is a feature worthy of the device’s slightly hefty price tag. This ensures you enjoy energy savings year-round and regain your investment faster than in most other heating solutions.
Cost depends on the type of system you opt for
Geothermal heat pumps can be divided into two distinct categories - open-loop and closed-loop systems.
While closed-loop systems are those most commonly used, it’s not rare for users to opt for its open-looped variant. When it comes to cost, it is often this factor that plays the most decisive role. This is because factors such as loop length and design for a particular residence or commercial property, will depend on a number of factors not limited to climate, soil condition, space, heating and cooling load, as well as unique installation costs.
They’re highly efficient
While geothermal heat pumps are known to require a little bit of an investment in the beginning, its high energy efficiency helps owners make quick returns.
Not only do these devices insulate users from erratic fossil fuel prices which have risen steadily in recent years but also ensures that energy-savings become a foregone conclusion in homes and commercial buildings.
Typical efficiency is indicated through the Seasonal Performance Factor - calculating the ratio of heat delivered to the total electrical energy supplied over the year. Here, its SPF value is well above 4, meaning that for each kW of thermal energy consumed, geothermal heat pumps generate 4kW of thermal energy.
Geothermal heat pumps enjoy a long lifespan
The average lifetime of a geothermal heat pump is around 25 years for indoor components and a whopping 50+ years for the system’s ground loops. It, therefore, justifies in large part the investment required at the outset.
This ensures that energy-saving capabilities are guaranteed for many years after installation, made more significant given that these heat pump options pay themselves back over a short 10-year period.
Key Takeaways
Geothermal heating represents one of the best heat pump options in the industry. Given its use of renewable resources, property owners that are looking to be both cost-effective and sustainable, can’t go wrong with systems like this in place.
With their impressive climate adaptability features and the long lifespan enjoyed by geothermal heat pumps, there’s no better way to face the impending energy woes of the future.
