Frequently Asked Questions - Geothermal Systems
What is a geothermal heating and cooling system?
A geothermal heating and cooling system is a device that uses the natural heat storage ability of the earth (or the earth's ground water) to heat and cool a home or business.
How does a geothermal system work?
A few feet below the ground surface, the earth's temperature remains at a fairly constant 50°F to 56°F in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. A geothermal system takes advantage of this constant temperature to provide extremely efficient heating and cooling. In winter, a water solution circulating through pipes buried in the ground absorbs heat from the earth and carries it into the home.
The geothermal system inside the home uses a heat pump to concentrate the earth's thermal energy and then to transfer it to air circulated through standard ductwork to fill the interior space with warmth. In the summer, the process is reversed: heat is extracted from the air in the house and transferred through the heat pump to the ground loop piping. The water solution in the ground loop then carries the excess heat back to the earth.
The only external energy needed for the geothermal system is the small amount of electricity needed to operate the ground loop pump, fan, and compressor.
How much can I save with a Geothermal System?
In general, homeowners can save 40% to 80% on their heating and cooling costs with a geothermal system.
WaterFurnace, Inc., a leading geothermal heating and cooling system manufacturer, has an Online Savings Calculator that can provide homeowners with an estimate as to how much they can save with a geothermal system.
Can I Install a Geothermal System Myself?
It's not recommended. The sizing of heat pump and loop lengths are critical to the efficient performance of the Geothermal system. Moreover, the thermal fusion of the pipe, as well as the drilling, trenching, and grouting procedures, are best handled by IGSHPA Accredited professionals. Nonprofessional installations may result in decreased performance, which could thus cancel out anticipated savings.
What are the Environmental Benefits of Geothermal Systems?
Geothermal systems conserve energy and, because they move heat that already exists beneath the ground, rather than burning something to create heat, they reduce the amount of toxic emissions in the atmosphere. They use renewable energy from the sun, and because the system doesn't rely on outside air, it keeps the air inside of buildings cleaner and free from pollens, outdoor pollutants, mold spores, and other allergens.
For additional questions on Geothermal Systems, please visit the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association's (IGSHPA's) Frequently Asked Questions page.
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