Geothermal: An Excellent System That Requires Expert Installation
Geothermal heat pump technology has been around since 1853, and commercially available since the 1940s. With more than 1 million units in use today, they have proven to be among the most reliable and energy-efficient HVAC systems available.
Geothermal heat pumps use the earth as a heat reservoir. Underground circulating water lines take advantage of moderating ground temperatures to harvest heat during cold weather, and dissipate it during hot periods. The earth absorbs heat from the sun and retains it at temperatures near the annual surface temperature, in depths of up to 20 feet. At depths greater than 20 feet, the earth stays in a constant 50- to 75-degree range.
When compared to conventional air source heat pumps, operating and maintenance cost savings for ground source systems are in the range of 30 percent to 60 percent, according to the Department of Energy. Variation depends on geographical location, soil conditions and other factors. Geothermal systems have an energy efficiency rating of more than 300 percent, because it is able to move three to five times more heat energy than electrical energy consumed during operation.
In the past, geothermal heat source and heat sink systems were less popular than conventional systems because they cost more to install. But recent technological improvements have lowered costs and improved efficiency. The initial investment difference is usually returned in energy savings within three to 10 years.
Also, these systems can be combined with solar systems for even more savings and energy independence, and they have a longer service life than conventional units. And they can be retrofitted onto existing buildings and pools, or installed in new construction.
You can get additional information about how to take advantage of this natural source of free energy in Florida from the experts at Symbiont Service Corp.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about geothermal technology and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Symbiont Service Corp. serves Englewood, Florida and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!
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