Geothermal
Alternatives: Technology for Our Times
Geothermal systems – also referred as ground source
heat and cooling pumps – are an environment-friendly alternative to traditional
methods used for heating homes and businesses. With the potential to help
users realize energy-conscious goals and long-term cost efficiencies,
geothermal-based systems are drawing increased interest among consumers.
While particulars on how geothermal systems work are somewhat complex,
and we'll be happy to provide more information when you contact us. Meantime,
Executive Heating & Cooling offers an overview for readers and customers:
Heat pumps from ground sources are constructed using
tubing that is buried underneath your property. This specialized tubing
is filled with an antifreeze fluid that circulates through all of the
piping. During the winter, this fluid attracts heat from the relatively
warm earth (heat source) underground and brings it into your home – providing
heat. During the summer, the fluid attracts heat from your home and discharges
it into the relatively cooler earth (heat sink) – to provide cooling.
A major advantage of geothermal-based systems is
that they actually combine three major systems into one: heating, cooling
and some capabilities for water heating. Other advantages and disadvantages
to consider include:
Advantages:
- Can result in extremely low energy bills. Studies
show an approximate 50% savings in energy bills can be realized over
conventional heating and cooling systems.
- Geothermal is environmentally friendly and possibly
safer as well. Systems use less electricity to run and do not use any
types of fossil fuels. Fossil fuels employed by traditional methods
cause combustion, which produces and releases carbon monoxide and other
possible-hazard gases, contributing to pollution.
- Low maintenance requirements involved. This is
especially true when a closed-loop system is installed, versus the open-loop
type. Properly designed and installed geothermal heat pump systems generally
require checking and cleaning only at extended intervals.
- Year-round comfort is provided through geothermal
applications/installations. Most important to consider, geothermal systems
don't require installation of a furnace or an air conditioner. A properly
installed geothermal heat pump system eliminates the expense and upkeep
of these HVAC components and can accomplish both tasks.
Disadvantages:
- While initially somewhat expensive to install,
reductions in energy use and subsequent cost efficiencies may gain back
outlay expense in a relatively short time. Depending on the type and
extent of system design/installation chosen, reports indicate that cost
outlays for geothermal systems – which are ultimately “self-sufficient”–
may be recouped in just a matter of a few years. This of course depends
on other factors like the ranges of energy prices for different parts
of the country and also on what type of traditional method (i.e., energy
costs) the geothermal system was chosen to replace.
- Geo systems may have a tendency to work better
in some areas of the country than others. If you are considering a geothermal
alternative, we can help you research the information you need to make
an educated decision.
Executive Heating & Cooling has installed several
geothermal applications for satisfied customers who now enjoy the cost-savings
and convenience of going geothermal. Contact our staff and we will assist
you in learning more about benefits of applying geothermal technology
to your home, commercial or industrial situation. |