Basically there are two main factors that usually modern-consumers consider when choosing and buying a new air cooling appliances at this time that are; the cost that usually will be related to the energy efficiency ratings (like SEER value, approved or not by Energy Star, etc) and the eco-friendly technology or not! Due to increasingly worrying the global warming issue, the awareness of using home appliances that friendly to the environment increases drastically. And geothermal heating and air conditioning systems are one of the eco-friendly and innovative technologies that so recommended. They can be functioned as a heat sink during hottest months and as a heat source in the coldest months as obvious as their nickname!

They are rapidly increasing popular (particularly throughout Europe and North America) that not only because of as green air cooling-heating system but also can work efficiently and satisfactorily to save your money either in the short term or in the long term on the monthly energy bill that you must pay each month. Geothermal heating and air conditioning is claimed can work more efficient than conventional units (more efficient consuming 45 percent to 75 percent less energy). Not only that, the relatively constant temperature a year-round (45 degrees to 55 degrees Fahrenheit) of the earth (free unlimited green renewable energy) that becomes as main source energy of geothermal technology is one of the main reasons why they become one of the best green choices at this day.

Geothermal HVAC systems use thermal energy which originates from earth and only needs a low amount of electrical power. The thermodynamic principle is one of the main based theories of how they work! They are superior to conventional heat pumps that still can work optimal in spite of the outside temperature decreases extremely (lower than 33 degrees Fahrenheit). Sub-surface conductive heat transfer is required to generate green thermal energy of the earth’s crust. In addition, the system usually consists of three main components; (a) the distribution system, (b) heat pump unit, and (c) ground loop system. Some other basic parts that required are; ductwork, condensing unit, air handling equipment, etc.

How they work?

In cooling mode, hot air is removed by absorbing it into the ground. It can be realized by using the ground loop pipes mechanism. Theoretically, the ground underneath line almost will not be influenced by the surface temperature condition. Therefore, loop pipes that also contain a refrigerant (it is usually pumped through tubing) can be functioned as well to remove the warm energy in the room with cooler energy from the ground (the ground’s temperature is relatively cooler or lower than the surface temperature during summer). This mechanism process is also familiar called as direct exchange! In addition, there are two popular methods in the geothermal cooling mode; (1) water to water methods that usually use the liquid spread system and (2) water to air mechanisms (requiring a liquid coolant).

In heating mode; the ground loop system is used as medium of water that pumped from the ground. The natural hot water from the ground (the ground’s temperature is relatively higher or hotter than the surface temperature during winter) then will be transferred into compressor that will be heated once again (by using not too high energy) and then through the heat exchanger and finally will be released into the room radiantly to heat the air inside of the room.

Types of ground loop designs

A. Horizontal design of closed loop

Image source: hydro.mb.ca

B. Vertical design of closed loop

Image source: hydro.mb.ca

C. Open loop (well to well design)

Image source: hydro.mb.ca

D. Using pond or lake in your local area

Image source: hydro.mb.ca

Generally, how to operate geothermal heating and cooling system is simply. The system is usually already equipped with some modern features like commonly modern heater and air conditioner appliances. Users can set the temperature level as well as like their desire by using the electronic thermostat feature.

As additional information, ensuring the system keeps working optimally and efficiently by doing the proper maintenance regularly! Some basic maintenance procedure that homeowners consider are; checking/cleaning/replacing the air filter (monthly is better), checking the supply and return air vents are not dirty, etc. But if you have adequate budget why not to get an annual maintenance contract by hiring a professional HVAC contractor in your local area.

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Tags: geothermal heating and air conditioning, geothermal heating and cooling