A ground source or geothermal heat pump (GHP) is an appliance that can cool or heat your home with clean energy. It works particularly well in areas with a relatively moderate climate where the temperatures don’t swing too high or low. Rapids Sheet Metal Heating & Cooling, a trusted heating contractor in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, explains how they work and why you should consider having one installed in your home.

What Are Geothermal Heat Pumps?

GHPs are an energy-efficient alternative to using a separate air conditioner and heater. The first successful model was built in the late 1940s by Robert Webber, but it became popular only in the 1970s. This heat pump is installed in the ground to draw the energy from the earth rather than fossil fuels. A heating contractor embeds a loop system several feet underground near your home or business, and this will become your personal heat source.

How Do They Work?

As it is insulated from the outside, the temperature a few feet under the ground stays relatively constant throughout the year. It is warmer than the air outside during winter and cooler during summer. Using a series of submerged pipes and a ground heat exchanger, GHPs either heat up or cool down the air inside your home or business by exchanging heat with a ground source.

Why Are They Beneficial?

All heat pumps use less energy than traditional air conditioners and furnaces, but geothermal models are the most efficient. They can produce four units of energy for every electrical unit spent. Since there is no combustion or mechanical operation involved, they are also cleaner, safer, quieter, and relatively maintenance-free.    

If you are interested in geothermal heat pumps, turn to the heating contractors at Rapids Sheet Metal Heating & Cooling. This company has been providing quality HVAC services since 1915. They specialize in air conditioner and furnace installation and maintenance, boiler repair, and HVAC inspection. Call (715) 421-5555 today or visit their website to learn more about this heating contractor.