Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems 101

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What is a geothermal heating and cooling system?

A system using heat pump technology, electrically powered, with a ground loop source, providing heating, cooling, and hot water.

How does geothermal energy work underground?

The earth stores solar energy year-round; 48% of solar energy is absorbed by the ground, keeping underground temps at 55º-65º F.

What are the three sub-systems of a geothermal system?

1. Ductwork (or radiant floor), 2. Geothermal unit (compressor and pumps), 3. Ground loop (heat transfer fluid).

What is the key working fluid in geothermal systems?

Refrigerants—they can harvest heat even from cooler sources by moving heat, not creating it.

Why can 55°F ground heat a building to 75°F?

Through basic refrigeration and heat concentration, not by temperature alone but by heat content.

Name the four types of geothermal units.

Water to air, water to water, split system, and combination (radiant heating and forced air cooling).

What are the types of geothermal ground loops?

Horizontal loop, vertical loop, pond loop, and open loop.

List three major benefits of geothermal systems.

1. Saves money (cuts energy costs by 60%+), 2. Provides better comfort, 3. Enhances safety (no CO poisoning risk).

What is the Coefficient of Performance (COP) for geothermal systems?

Around 5, meaning 500% efficiency (5 units of energy delivered for 1 unit of energy used).

Why are geothermal systems considered environmentally friendly?

They use renewable solar energy and emit no direct greenhouse gases.

What is a Net Zero Building, and how does geothermal help achieve it?

A building that generates or cancels out 100% of its energy needs onsite; geothermal drastically reduces energy usage.

How does a geothermal unit work?

It concentrates heat from the ground to raise temperature to a usable level. Ground heat causes refrigerant to evaporate, transferring energy via latent heat of vaporization.