Most homeowners know about the conventional ways to heat and cool their homes, such as furnaces, boilers, central air conditioners, heat pumps, and even ductless mini splits. However, geothermal heat pumps are often overlooked, as they might at first seem complex and difficult to understand.
In the latest blog post from Edwards Royal Comfort, we’ll discuss what geothermal heat pumps are, how they work, and why you should consider installing one. Reach out to our team today to learn more about geothermal heat pump systems, or to schedule an appointment in Greencastle, Crawfordsville, or Danville, IN.
What is a Geothermal Heat Pump?
An alternative to traditional air source heat pumps, air conditioners, and furnaces, geothermal heat pumps use geothermal energy to heat and cool your home.
A geothermal system is typically made up of two parts:
- The physical geothermal heat pump heat exchanger which will likely reside in a basement or garage.
- Ground loops, or underground pipes, are installed in the ground beneath and around your home.
Like traditional air source heat pumps, geothermal heat pump systems move heat away from your home in the summer and reverse the process in the winter. However, geothermal systems are different in that they rely on energy within the earth, rather than energy from the outside air, to keep a household at the ideal temperature.
Because geothermal energy is considered a renewable resource, a geothermal heating and cooling system is a green way to keep your home comfortable. Just a few feet below the surface of the earth, temperatures remain a consistent 50-55°F.
How Does a Geothermal Heat Pump Work?
Geothermal heating and cooling systems utilize water-based solutions that flow through the ground loops. During the winter months, your geothermal system will pull heat from the earth via the ground loops and direct it towards the heat pump. From there, the water-based solution will be vaporized, enter a compressor, and finally be distributed throughout the ductwork of the home.
During the summer months, the process is essentially reversed. Heat is absorbed from the home via a heat exchanger and is passed through the ground loop, cooling down the water-based solution. It is then recirculated into the building at a lower temperature, cooling down the home. This process is then repeated to ensure that your home is able to maintain the temperature that you’ve set on your thermostat.
Benefits of Installing a Geothermal Heat Pump
Installing a geothermal heat pump is a big decision to make. While the initial installation is more expensive than other types of heating and cooling systems, you’ll be able to take advantage of benefits including:
- Lower heating and cooling costs
- Energy savings and much more energy efficiency
- Environmentally friendly and more sustainable
- Tax credits and other incentives
- Longer system life span
- Increased home value
To learn more about geothermal heating and cooling, or to discover if it’s the right choice for your home, get in touch with Edwards Royal Comfort today.
Contact Edwards Royal Comfort for Geothermal Heat Pump Services
Geothermal heat pumps are a great alternative to traditional HVAC systems. We’re here to answer any questions that you might have about these systems.
Here at Edwards Royal Comfort, we’re passionate about helping families across Greencastle, Crawfordsville, and Danville, IN stay safe and comfortable all year long. Get in touch with us today to learn more about geothermal systems, discuss your financing options, or schedule an appointment with our experienced, talented, and knowledgeable team.