Tapping the underground

Tapping the underground Geothermal heat pumps use stable ground temperatures for home heating and cooling. According to the EPA, the geothermal systems can save 40 percent to 70 percent on home-heating and 20 percent to 50 percent on home-cooling costs over conventional systems, although installation costs can be up to $12,000. Vents to house Before you go Pipes are buried to a depth below the freezing line, where the ground temperature is constant. geothermal: • Conduct a home energy audit to determine the size of the system needed. The process can also result in Нeat pump/ exchanger Ground loop energy-efficiency gains. • Find a certified contractor, experienced with geothermal installations. • Determine the land area available for underground pipes. If area is ample, a backhoe can be used for horizontal loops in shallow trenches. If area is limited, a drilling rig is used for deeper, vertical loops. How it works: 1. A geothermal heat exchanger system consists of indoor heat pump equipment, a ground loop, and a flow center to connect the indoor and outdoor equipment. 2. The ground loop geothermal system uses the constant temperature of the ground or water several feet underground. 10 3. The pump circulates temperature-sensitive fluid through the ground loop, which stays 50 to 60 degrees year-round. In winter, warm fluid carries heat into the house. In summer, cool fluid draws heat out of the house. feet www.hvaclocal.com Find HVAC Companies www.hvaclocal.com