How Do Geothermal Heat Pumps Work?
No matter where you live in eastern Alabama or western Georgia, the temperature beneath the surface of the Earth remains relatively constant, averaging around 55 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. Geothermal heat pumps draw on this reliable source of energy to heat and cool your home. Read on to learn how this green technology works and discover the many advantages that geothermal systems offer.
The Geothermal Difference
Most heat pumps, including refrigerators and air conditioners, work by extracting heat from the surrounding air and moving it elsewhere. In contrast, geothermal pumps utilize the surrounding underground heat via loops of pipes buried in the ground. The earth is used as a source of heat in the winter and as a heat sink during the summer. Modern geothermal systems come with ground-breaking functions that make them adaptable for a broad range of applications:
- Features like two-stage compressors, microprocessor controls and variable-speed blowers let you fine-tune your comfort in every season.
- Ground-source pumps equipped with secondary heat exchangers called desuperheaters can provide domestic hot water or heated water for radiant HVAC systems.
- Affordable hybrid systems allow you to use an existing furnace to augment heat as desired.
These and other features mean increased energy efficiency which is important for the environment and your bank account.
Economic Advantages
The Environmental Protection Agency cites energy savings as the greatest benefit that geothermal heat pumps offer. Although ground-source pumps cost more to install, Energy Star qualified models are over 45 percent more energy efficient than traditional systems. Depending on the type of system you choose, you can recoup your investment in as little as two to five years through lower monthly utility bills.
An innovator in home comfort for more than 40 years, Riley Heating and Air Conditioning is proud to offer eco-friendly products that let you hold on to more of your hard-earned money. For more information about using energy harnessed from the earth to heat and cool your home, explore our geothermal heat pump services or call us today at 334-298-1278.
