If you’re looking for an energy-efficient and cost-effective way to heat your home, a geothermal HVAC system is definitely a good option. Geothermal systems work by using the heat stored within the ground to help keep your home warm all winter, and they can also function in reverse to keep you cool in the summer. We’ll now take a closer look at exactly what a geothermal HVAC system is and how it provides heating.
What Is a Geothermal HVAC System?
Geothermal systems are a type of forced-air HVAC that works in a somewhat similar way to a heat pump. All forced-air systems work by heating cold air inside the home. The blower fan brings in cold air, which is then heated and circulated throughout the building. Unlike a furnace, a geothermal system doesn’t actually produce heat. Instead, it absorbs heat from the ground and transfers the heat inside to warm up the air in the building.
These systems use a series of coiled pipes that are buried underneath the ground. The pipes are located below the frost line where the ground temperature remains steady at around 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Inside the pipes is a special refrigerant liquid that absorbs heat from the ground. Cold refrigerant is pumped through the coils, and the heat energy naturally flows from the warmer ground into the colder liquid. This raises the temperature of the refrigerant, which is then compressed to the point that it vaporizes into a gas.
Inside the heat pump is another series of coils that the gas flows into. The blower fan forces cold air over the gas, and heat energy then naturally flows from the gas into the cold air. This now-warm air is transported throughout the home.
Benefits of Geothermal Heating
One major benefit of a geothermal system is that it can both heat and cool as needed. This means that you won’t need to pay to maintain separate heating and cooling systems.
The biggest advantage of geothermal systems is that they are much more energy efficient than virtually any other type of heating or air conditioning system. These systems rely solely on electricity, and the heat transfer process they use allows them to often be as much as two to three times more efficient than either a gas furnace or any electric heating option. Compared to using a furnace, geothermal heating has the potential to lower your energy costs from 30% to 60%.
If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of geothermal heating, Conan Heating & Air Conditioning has you covered. We install and service geothermal systems as well as air conditioners, furnaces, mini splits and fireplaces. We also offer ductwork, indoor air quality and sheet metal fabrication services for customers throughout the Idaho Falls area. For more information, give Conan Heating & Air Conditioning a call today.
