Geothermal HVAC systems take advantage of the earth's subterranean temperature. Although atmospheric temperatures fluctuate because of seasonal weather conditions, underground temperatures are surprisingly consistent at a depth of four to six feet.
Even though underground heat pump systems have been used successfully for 60+ years, geothermal system myths still abound, including:
Durability. One geothermal system myth is that these systems are not durable. However, the earth loops that form the underground pipe network are remarkably long-lived. They can last for 50 years and typically carry an equal warranty. Water is most commonly used in the pipe network, instead of refrigerant-filled pipes.
Noise Level. Geothermal systems are not noisy, contrary to common belief. Because the outside configuration is buried underground, it produces no noise to disturb your neighbors. The part of the system that is located indoors runs quietly. Geothermal applications are often misunderstood as one-dimensional, such as only capable of heating your home. But systems also include cooling, and they can even be configured to handle multiple tasks such as heating your home, your water inside and outside in pools.
Space Requirements. A prevailing geothermal system myth is that you need a large yard. But even small yards can accommodate the underground network. If you have a larger yard, a horizontal configuration works well, but if your yard is small, you can have a vertical geothermal system.
Renewability. Another myth is that a geothermal system is not a renewable energy technology. The fact is that geothermal systems reduce up to four times the consumption load on the electric grid than photovoltaic and wind power add to it.
Cost. Perhaps the most popular geothermal system myth is that these systems are cost prohibitive to install and maintain. Although water does circulate throughout the earth loops, it is a recirculating system so there's actually no continual water consumption. The initial installation cost, which is sometimes costly, is offset by tax incentives and the overall savings over the life of the system.
Contact the experts at Air Assurance for any questions you have about installing a geothermal system for your Broken Arrow home.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
Image courtesy of Shutterstock