While it can get freezing outside during the winter, the temperature just 10 feet underground doesn’t differ from when it’s summer. It stays about 55 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. Geothermal heating, also known as “ground source” heating, takes advantage of this by using the heat underground to warm your home.
How Geothermal Heating Works
Geothermal heating systems consist of a heat pump attached to a series of underground loops of pipe. The pipes are filled with a heat-conducting fluid. The heat pump is also connected to your home’s ductwork system.
In the winter, the fluid draws latent heat out of the ground and transfers it through the ductwork to your living space. Since these systems only use electricity to power a motor and fan, they are extremely energy efficient. They can be up to 400% more efficient than a more traditional system.
Horizontal vs. Vertical Pipe Loops
The loops of pipe can be installed horizontally or vertically. Horizontal systems are less expensive to install, but they require a large amount of space in your yard. They’re buried between 5 to 10 feet underground.
Vertical looping pipe systems are more expensive to install than horizontal ones, but they take up much less space. Holes are bored, the pipes are inserted, and the holes are backfilled with soil.
Geothermal Heat Pump Sizing
The HVAC company you choose to install the system will perform calculations to determine what size of heat pump you need. The heat pump will be the size needed to heat your home on the coldest day of the year. This means that it will run continuously on that day, which is perfectly normal.
Count on Us for Geothermal Services
Conan Heating & Air Conditioning in Idaho Falls, ID, offers geothermal heating and cooling system services. We’ve been in business since 1947 and have NATE-certified technicians. Besides our work with geothermal heat systems, Conan Heating & Air Conditioning also repairs, replaces, and maintains conventional heat pumps, furnaces, air conditioners, and packaged systems. Our services and products also include thermostats and indoor air quality solutions. Please call today if you need a heating or cooling service.
