Although most homeowners still have traditional heating and cooling systems that primarily consist of a furnace and air conditioner, there are other choices out there that are better for the environment and your pocketbook. Geothermal heat pumps, for example, have seen a definite uptick in popularity in recent years. Unfortunately, many people don’t know how they work, so we thought we’d provide a quick explanation.
Where Geothermal Energy Comes From
The easy answer is that the energy used by a geothermal heat pump is derived from the earth. More precisely, our planet is constantly absorbing energy from the sun and storing it deep below its crust. Regardless of the changes in the topside temperature, the temperature remains fairly constant deep down, and this energy is ripe for the picking.
How Geothermal Heat Pumps Work
With the use of an intricate piping system buried under the ground around your home, a geothermal heat pump accesses the energy that’s being maintained underground to heat and cool your home. It circulates water, or a mix of water and antifreeze, through the pipes, then harnesses the energy that it’s able to collect.
The energy is dispersed either through your home’s ductwork or by way of radiant coils in your ceiling or floors. This system is able to both heat and cool your home because the water in the pipes adjusts to the temperature of the ground surrounding it.
Saving Money
Although a geothermal heat pump system will cost you almost twice as much as a traditional heating or cooling system, the money you’ll save is nothing to scoff at. Depending on your usage, the increase in energy efficiency means the system will pay for itself within five to 10 years. Once you’ve hit that level, the savings will last for a long time with minimal upkeep.
For more expert advice on geothermal heat pumps, or if you have any other questions related to home comfort, please contact the friendly professionals at Weather Makers Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ve been serving the HVAC needs of Chesapeake and surrounding areas since 1971.
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