Watch the video on Geothermal Heat Pumps.
The idea of being 6 feet under isn't all that appealing, unless you're a geothermal heat pump system! Geothermal heat pumps use the earth's natural energy to heat or cool a home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these systems are the most energy-efficient, environmentally clean, and cost-effective space conditioning systems available. Because of these benefits, you might want to suggest geothermal heat pumps to homeowners who are interested in alternate and renewable energy sources.
If you dig down about 6 feet on most of the planet, you'll discover that the temperature remains a consistent 45-70 degrees Fahrenheit year around. Through a system of underground pipes called a loop, geothermal heat pumps transfer heat from the warmer earth to the home in the winter, and take the heat from the home in the summer and discharge it into the cooler ground. Therefore, these systems don't create heat; they move it from one area to another. Once the heat is transferred from the pipes, it passes through a heat exchanger where the warmth is concentrated and then distributed through the home via a duct system.
There are two basic types of geothermal heat pumps systems: an open loop system and a closed loop system.
An open loop system uses a conventional well as the heat source. Water is pumped into the home, passes through the heat exchanger where the relatively warmer or cooler energy is extracted, then is returned to the well. This system requires a steady source of ground water and isn't allowed by building codes in all areas.
A closed loop system requires a fully contained series of pipes that are filled with an environmentally friendly anti-freeze solution. The pipes can be buried either vertically when lot space is small, or horizontally. As long as the pipes are buried at least six feet below the surface, the relative temperature difference will be great enough to enable the system to work.
The major cost savings of a geothermal heat pump system is that there is no need for fuel like natural gas or electricity to heat or cool the air. These systems are generally low maintenance, and require only modest amounts of electricity to power the compressor and heat pump. Because of this, most homeowners can appreciate a 25%-50% reduction in their monthly energy bills compared to conventional heating and cooling systems. Also, homeowners should check with their utility company and ask if they offer any rebates, financing, or special electric rate programs.
As new technologies are developed to help fight rising energy costs, builders will be called upon more often to help homeowners make informed decisions about heating and cooling options for their new home. Geothermal heat pumps are an energy-saving alternative to conventional heating and cooling systems that can provide a comfortable living environment for homeowners.
Visit the Department of Energy's "Energy Savers" website for more information: www.eere.energy.gov/consumerinfo/factsheets/geo_heatpumps.html.
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