HP Building Solutions | What is Geothermal?



GeoExchange (previously known as "geothermal") heat pump system is not only something that makes you feel comfortable, it is a technology that you can feel comfortable about. Because it is lowest in greenhouse emissions, GeoExchange is the most environmentally responsible heating and cooling alternative available today, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. GeoExchange systems are highly energy-efficient since they only require a relatively small amount of electricity to harness the renewable energy in the earth. EarthLinked® units typically deliver much more energy than they consume, so you save on your monthly energy bills when compared to other types of heating and cooling systems. By focusing special attention on advanced product design, solid construction and installation flexibility, EarthLinked® GeoExchange Heat Pumps are capable of fully utilizing the natural heat storage ability of the earth as a primary source for heating and cooling your home.

No matter where you live, the underground temperature remains relatively constant all year, even though outdoor temperatures may vary widely. GeoExchange systems utilize this stable resource as a renewable energy source for your home. Every GeoExchange system has three major subsystems or parts: a geothermal heat pump to move heat between the building and the fluid in the earth connection, an earth connection (or earth loop) for transferring heat between its fluid and the earth, and a distribution subsystem for delivering heating or cooling to the building. Each system may also have a desuperheater to supplement the building's water heater, or a full-demand water heater to meet all of the building's hot water needs. In Winter (heating mode), heat is extracted from the fluid in the earth connection by the GeoExchange heat pump and distributed to the home or building—typically through a system of air ducts. Cooler air from the building is returned to the GeoExchange heat pump, where it cools the fluid flowing to the earth connection. The fluid is then re-warmed as it flows through the earth connection. In Summer (cooling mode), the process is reversed. The relatively cool fluid from the earth connection absorbs heat from the building and transfers it to the ground.
EarthLinked Dealers Below is a list of all of HP Building Solutions' EarthLinked Dealers. www.andylewishobson.com www.airmechanix.us www.indoorclimateexperts.net www.bradshawhvac.com www.ghvacinc.com www.jntemperaturecontrol.com www.c-air.net www.patsioshomes.com www.homeechomeperformance.com www.daycosystems.com www.kegreene.com www.greenheatingandcooling.com www.controlledclimateservices.com
PAYBACK A geothermal system can cost more up front but can pay for itself in four years and then save $129 a month. It can also, if financed, generate immediate cash flow savings. For a 2,352 square-foot house in Pennsylvania:
Geothermal Price $17,700 Average monthly cost $83 Efficiency 25.1 EER Should last 20 years Savings in 60 months $21,129*	Conventional System Price $10,000 Average monthly cost $212 Efficiency 16.5 SEER/12.6 EER Should last 13 years Savings in 60 months $11,678
* Savings over older conventional system. Assumes fuel prices rise 10% per year. Source: Energy Design Systems.