Geothermal Ground Source Heat Pumps Explained

Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) are an environmentally friendly way to heat and cool your home that provides long-term cost savings. They rely upon energy or geothermal exchange between the air in a building and the temperature underground. Ground temperatures are always a constant 55° F. Geothermal works because the ground beneath our feet is warmer than the outside air in the winter and cooler in the summer. By inserting a series of small pipes that contain a water glycol mixture into the ground, heat can be transferred to the mixture and into your home in the winter. In summer when the temperature rises above the ground temperature, the process works in reverse.

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Geothermal ground water heat pumps are the most efficient and cost-effective way to make use of the earth's natural heat. GSHP is a cooling and heating system that will simultaneously heat your water and adjust the temperature in your home. Initially, a GSHP system has a higher cost than a traditional oil or gas heating system, although over time lower energy costs compensate for the cost making a GSHP system a sound investment. It is 50-70% more effective in heating, and 20-40% more effective in cooling. Although these cost more than the conventional heating and cooling systems, the cost is offset by the effectiveness of the GSHP systems. 

Another sound reason to for GSHP is that buy using the earths energy the system does not need to burn fossil fuels. An average system reduces 3 million tons of carbon dioxide, which is important not just for you and your home, but for the environment at large. Heat pumps don't use outside air filled with other allergens, spores, and pollutants and use factory-sealed refrigeration techniques, preventing further damage to the ozone layer.

Installation of GSHP systems is fairly simple when done by a professional. Most of the GSHP system is underground, with an in-house cooling/heating mechanism. This will most likely replace the already pre-built cooling system you have in your home. You may also combine your previous heating/cooling system with the GSHP for a dual system. GSHP systems are either installed vertically or horizontally installation. Vertical installations can be more costly but are more efficient in the long run. Additional installation needs may include an electrical, hook up duct-work, and water hook up is necessary.

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There are a number of cheaper options you can choose for your home but a GSHP system is more reliable, lasts longer and helps prevent pollution. Initial costs are somewhat higher but these costs are minimal compared to the enormous advantage gained through GSHPs. If you're a homeowner in New England, purchasing this heat pump is a wise choice for you and your family.