Geothermal systems take advantage of the fact that the earth maintains a relatively stable temperature of about 55 degrees below the surface. Running fluid through 400- to 500-foot pipes in the ground lets homeowners and business owners preheat or precool the air entering their HVAC system and reduce the energy needed to keep indoor temperatures comfortable. Here are the most common types of geothermal heat pump systems and how they work.

Geothermal HVAC Systems

1. Closed-Loop Horizontal

Contractors lay pipes horizontally in trenches about 4 feet below the surface of the ground. Refrigerant—water or a mixture of water and antifreeze—travels in a loop from the building, to the ground, and back again. This style is often the easiest and least expensive closed-loop system to install since excavation is relatively shallow. However, it requires a sizable lot to accommodate the necessary piping. A zigzag formation helps condense the system so that it takes up less space.

2. Closed-Loop Vertical

This is identical to the horizontal system, except pipes are installed vertically, reaching dozens or scores of feet below ground. Installation is more expensive because contractors must dig through bedrock, but it doesn’t require as large of a lot as the horizontal system. It also minimizes the disturbance to the surrounding area and landscaping.

3. Open-Loop Well

Open-loop systems use well water as the medium in a water-to-refrigerant heat exchange. They draw water from beneath the ground and either absorb heat from the house in the summer or release heat to warm the home in winter. Once the heat transfer is complete, the water is returned to a different point in the well. This cost-effective method minimizes excavation and piping needs, but it requires a well or another water source on the property. Extreme care must also be taken to avoid contaminating groundwater.

For more information on the installation of a geothermal system, contact Cowboy's Heating & Air, the premier heating contractor serving clients throughout Ohio’s Miami Valley and the Tri-State area since 1984. They also specialize in boiler and furnace repair as well as AC replacement. Learn more about geothermal on their website, or call (937) 604-1541 to arrange a consultation.