What is geothermal energy?
Under the earth’s crust, there is a layer of molten, hot rock called magma. In this layer, natural decay of radioactive materials such as potassium and uranium continuously produces heat. According to geothermal experts, the heat within the first 33,000 feet of the earth's surface contains energy that is 50,000 times higher than all the natural gas and oil resources in the world combined. This energy is tapped to run heating and cooling systems. How do geothermal heating and cooling systems work?
Unlike furnaces, the geothermal heat pumps do not burn fuel to create heat. These pumps gather earth’s heat through a series of underground pipes known as loop. Depending on the climate zone, at a certain depth, the soil maintains a constant temperature all round the year. The loop carries a fluid, which gets heated. This heat is carried to the house, and concentrated using a compressor and heat exchanger. The heat is then circulated inside the home at a higher temperature via duct work. During summers, the loop extracts excess heat from the house, which is then absorbed to the earth.What are the key benefits of using geothermal heating and cooling systems?
Geothermal systems offer a number of benefits over conventional heating and cooling systems. Here are just a few of them:Energy efficiency: The biggest benefit of geothermal systems is that they bring in energy savings. Geothermal heat pumps consume 25% to 50% less electricity compared to conventional HVAC systems.
Low maintenance: According to United States Environmental Protection Agency, geothermal systems have the lowest life cycle cost compared to all heating and cooling systems currently available in the market.
Durability: Geothermal systems have a much higher lifespan compared to conventional heating and cooling systems. They can serve you for decades without requiring much repair or maintenance. The underground pipes can last for as long as 25-50 years, and the geothermal heat pumps may last for 2 decades.
Design flexibility: Geothermal systems can be installed in both retrofit and new homes. They occupy very less space compared to conventional HVAC systems, because the installations are underground.
Quite operation: Geothermal heating and cooling systems generally do not produce noise.
Low environmental impact: According to US department of energy, a standard 3-ton residential geothermal system produces approximately one less pound of carbon dioxide for every hour of use.
St. Louis Geothermal Solutions
Geothermal systems typically require a high initial investment, so you should be sure that the company you designate for installation has the expertise and experience in working with geothermal systems. If you have decided on getting geothermal heat pump in your new house, or an existing building, get in touch with Scott-Lee Heating Company. We have been in business for over 30 years and have the experience and expertise to provide your family with energy efficient solutions for your heating and cooling needs.
Call us today at (314) 756-9444
photo credit: james.thompson via Flickr
