Geothermal Heat Pump

geothermal heat pump towards a greenery development

2012-01-17T23:11:00.000-08:00

When we utilize the geothermal concept of cooling and heating to our home,we actually building up a superb eco-friendly green home building or remodelling.

Installing geothermal heat pump using less 25-30 percent less power than standard airconditioning system.Therefore using the continuos temperature of the earth we are developing the ground heat to reduce as well as reducing the electricity and the involved cost.

The GHP model consists of waterpipes underground nearby the residence a heat exchanger along with ducts ino allover space inside the home.The earth is warmer compared to outside air and it passes the warm air directlty into the house when winter season and it applies the other way round when summertime.

Overall heat of the ground has been taken out by the system and it builds a greenery development in a long period of time.

It's like d sideburn of ur car. U've got to keep it shiny & new, to not lose d cool. Chck out #NewLing on #MilkADeal

2011-08-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

It's like d sideburn of ur car. U've got to keep it shiny & new, to not lose d cool. Chck out #NewLing on #MilkADeal

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geothermal heat pump-know the facts!

2011-03-07T16:51:00.000-08:00

Go green with Geothermal Heat Pump

2010-12-14T18:04:00.000-08:00

We all are aware that our Planet Earth will die unless we, the most intelligent among its inhabitants reverse the damage cause to its environment. An urgent mandate is on now that calls for every human being on earth to go green as much as possible and wherever possible. The geothermal heating system is one such way that helps us conserve fossil-based fuels with a renewable all natural geothermal heat pump.

The advantages of use geothermal power:

1. Environment friendly - the first and the most important of all the reasons is that this is an environmental friendly method which helps you to get adequate heat without putting any pressure on the already depleted fossil based fuel that the planet has little to spare. The geothermal source is a perennial source of energy and it is easy to collect and use as well as cost-effective.

2. Be a responsible house builder - besides the fact that you save a fortune in heating fuel, you could also use other natural elements to run your home, such as solar panels for electricity, collect rain water and recycle it for drinking and bathing purposes, use your backyard to generate compost and grow organic vegetable in your kitchen garden, use only appliances that make optimal use of energy and do away with the air conditioner by insulating your home correctly and so on. You really can do your part, if you want to make your home environmental-friendly

3. Low cost, low maintenance - the geothermal pump is a superb piece of machinery that requires the least of amount of maintenance once it is set up correctly. The system consists of small pipes that are buried in the earth to pull in the heat. The whole machinery requires no repairs for years.

4. Superb mechanism - while you can get your home heated by running the pump, the reverse can happen by just switching it over. So you can have heat generated in the winter, and air conditioning working like magic in the summer.

5. Low cost heating and air conditioning - besides doing your part for Mother Earth; it will also save you money on energy costs in the long run. The geothermal installation used the earth's heat to warm up your home, and therefore you would have nothing to worry about buying fuel or paying utility bills every month. In fact, the savings are such that you could count on having a small fortune in just a couple of years by just saving on utility bills.

Green construction and green living is not a fad, but a necessity for every human being if we want to save ourselves for sure self-destruction. We should stop pollution, stop wasting natural resources and stop destroying the environment. Every home should become green-oriented and every human being should try to adopt as many measures that save energy as much as possible. If every person on this earth does their part, we can still hope that our children and their can enjoy this wonderful planet, called earth.

article source-stewart wrighwater

Condensing Boiler Vs Geothermal Heat Pump - Cheap Heat Surprise

2010-10-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

Many a home owner on the look out for something new to replace an old, inefficient heating system probably knows a thing or two about the exceptional efficiency of geothermal heat pumps. But few people are aware of the new 95% efficient condensing boilers fueled by natural gas.

While a geothermal heat pump's 350% efficiency far outstrips that of a 95% efficient condensing boiler, higher efficiency ratings don't always mean lower heating costs.

It's only when the cost of fuel is factored in can you determine the actual cost of heating for each system. In the example below the cost to produce 100,000 Btu will be used to compare the systems.

Since a geothermal heat pump runs on electricity measured in kilowatt hours (kWh), and a condensing boiler is fueled by natural gas measured in therms, it's necessary to convert kWh of electricity into "therms" to make an accurate comparison.

One therm of gas produces 100,000 Btu so we need to know how many kWh of electricity it would take to produce 100,000 Btu. Since one kWh = 3,413 Btu it would require 29.3 kWh to produce 100,000 Btu, or one "therm" of electricity.

Here in New England electricity goes for $0.143 per kWh. So a "therm" of electricity would cost $4.19 (29.3 x $0.143). A therm of natural gas, according to National Grid, retails for $0.78.

The next step is to apply each appliance's efficiency to its respective fuel price. But it's not as simple as multiplying the fuel price by the percentage of efficiency (95% or 350%). Instead you would use the coefficient of each percentage as a constant to keep the comparison apples to apples.

The condensing boiler efficiency is 95% therefore the coefficient is 1/.95 or 1.05

The geothermal heat pump efficiency is 350% so the coefficient would be 1/3.50 or.29

Finally, the efficiency coefficient is multiplied by the cost per therm of fuel for each system to determine which one produces 100,000 Btu of heat for the least amount of money.

Geothermal Heat Pump:.29 x $4.19 = $1.22 per 100,000 Btu

Condensing Boiler: 1.05 x $0.78 = $0.82 per 100,000 Btu

The surprising results show that even though a geothermal heat pump is 3½ times more efficient than a condensing boiler the heat it produces is 49% more expensive.

This paradox is brought about by recent low natural gas prices and the high cost of electricity in New England.

Depending on where you live, utility rates will vary from the ones used in this example but it should be simple enough to substitute local rates for the ones here to make your own comparisons.

Article source-Sam Streubel

Geothermal Heat Pump-Is a Geothermal System Right For You?

2010-08-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

The latest rage in the heating and air conditioning field are geothermal heat pumps. Whether you are building a new home or looking to replace an existing system, you might want to consider switching to this long-lasting and cost-efficient system.

No matter how hot or cold it is outside, the temperature of the earth stays constant just a few feet below ground. A geothermal heat pump takes advantage of the fact that the ground temperature is lower than the outside air in the summer and higher than the air in the winter. This system uses a series of circulating pipes to pull heat from the ground into the home during the winter and to move heat from the home to the earth in the summer. Using the earth means not having to use as much electricity as with a traditional system to heat and cool your home. This reduces your operating costs and environmental footprint.

A geothermal heating and cooling system is a little more expensive to install than a traditional furnace and central air conditioning system, but the low operating costs will save you money in the end. If you are retrofitting your home to geothermal, you can recoup your investment in two to ten years. The underground piping system can last for twenty-five to fifty years and the heat pump can last for twenty years. You will see significant savings over such a long time period.

There is no outside condenser unit with a heat pump and the pipes are buried underground. This means the parts of the system are protected from the elements which means less maintenance. No condensing unit means less noise as well. You can relax on your deck or patio without hearing the constant hum of a traditional unit. Some systems are designed to heat your water as part of the circulation cycle saving you additional money.

Installing heat pumps Arizona is not something you can do yourself. You will want to find the right contractor to deign and install the system. Check out local HVAC contractors to see what brands and services they offer. You should be able to find reviews made by previous customers that will give you a good idea if the contractor is right for you. Since geothermal systems are energy efficient, you might qualify for tax credits or rebates from your state or the federal government.

Since many geothermal systems are Energy Star rated, you might qualify for an energy efficient mortgage. The cost of improving your home's efficiency is added into your mortgage giving you more time to pay off your investment. The right contractor will help you pick the best system for your house and budget. You can also arrange for your contractor to do a yearly maintenance check to make sure your system is running at its peak.

In Arizona, the best pick for geothermal heating and cooling is Air Conditioning by Jay. They have vast experience in the installation of heat pumps Arizona. Their certified technicians will ensure your satisfaction with your new geothermal heat pump.

article by alice lain

Geothermal Heat Pump-Geothermal Heat Pump Cost - Is it Affordable?

2010-05-14T22:04:00.000-07:00

One of the first considerations when investing in a device would be its price and this is also sure when you want to invest in a heating device such as a heat pump and learning how much will a geothermal heat pump cost tops your concern.

In this time of economic crisis, consumers are more than just simply careful on where to invest their money aside of course from the fact that they want to get the best out of their purchase.

In general, a geothermal heat pump cost is around $3,500-$7,500. This is the price range is without added features. For those with added features the value is expectedly a little higher. Aside from the cost of the unit itself, one should also consider added cost on installation, which may range well within $10,000-$25,000, which may also vary depending on how deep the drilling will be.

If you are lucky, you may find a discount offered by a local heating and cooling company. It is often not recommended that you buy a used unit though.

Before purchasing a unit, it is important that you invest a little of your time searching for a good company that will offer not just the best type of heat pump but moreover, the right price that you can afford.

Banking on the fact that you really need a heating device to warm your water supply should not solely be the basis for purchasing such a relatively expensive device. However, if you are looking to heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer then a geothermal heat pump is a wise investment.

Also, when buying this device it is best to examine some features first before buying. Scrutinize first the nature of the area where you plan to install it. Look for the efficiency of the unit. Often the best heating devices are those with coefficient of performance value of 2.5 and energy efficiency rating of 13 or better.

The geothermal heat pump cost could prevent you from making this purchase, but the savings you will see on your home energy costs could far outweigh the cost of the purchase and installation of this unit. Visit my site for more information on these heating and cooling devices.

By Martin Applebum
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Geothermal Heat Pump-Why a Heat Pump May Be the Best Way to Cool Your Home

2009-11-14T02:33:00.000-08:00

It is impossible to turn on the news or open up a paper or magazine these days without seeing something about global warming. Ironically, one of the causes for the rising temperature of the planet is the energy used by the very products and systems we so desperately need to deal with mercurial temperature extremes. One way to cope with both situations simultaneously is to look at installing a heat pump in one's home rather than a standard gas or electric furnace.

There are many different types of heat pumps, the most common being an air-source. This works through heat transfer rather than creation. Instead of using power to generate heating or cooling, it essentially uses the process of conduction to exchange hot air for cold. The system works using two sets of copper coils, one on the interior of the home, one on the exterior, and a compressor. Heat will be extracted from the outside air and transferred inside to warm the dwelling. The directionality can be reversed in the summer to draw warm air from inside the house and direct it out.

An even more energy efficient form of heat pump is a geothermal (geo-exchange, ground source, or water-source) pump. Because earth and water are insulators in and of themselves, and therefore have a more consistent temperature than air, a pump sourced a few inches into the earth or water require less energy to produce the same temperature.

Both systems will result in higher energy efficiency and reduced costs over the long run, but do have added costs at the initial installation. The geothermal pump is by far the most efficient, but is also the most expensive and labor-intensive to install, though the end result will be worth the outlay. Another type of heat pump is dual-sourced, which combines the two and is somewhat less expensive, though with a concomitant reduction of energy savings.

When properly installed, heat pumps will reduce home heating and cooling costs, reduce heating repair bills, and will work as well as a central heating system in the right climate.

Climate is the caveat that needs to be observed when considering swapping out one's existing heating system for this model. In areas with extremes of cold, pumps may not provide the desired indoor temperature. Ground-source pumps are better equipped for this area, as are absorption heat pumps that are backed up with a gas heater to provide extra warming when necessary.

This is not an exhaustive list. There are a variety of systems to suit a range of home configurations and desired services. The Department of Energy offers a website and publications to help the discerning homeowner make the best choice.

While such systems are an excellent alternative to standard, often outdated heating and cooling systems (or those in need of substantial repair), one needs to take into consideration their efficacy in any given area and climate. They are particular ideal for temperate areas like Atlanta, where the temperatures rarely dip into extreme cold. When installed by a reputable contractor, they can be an excellent way to move heat out of the house.

By Brian Figlioli

Geothermal Heat Pump-Why are Geothermal Heat Pumps Efficient

2009-11-03T08:50:00.000-08:00

Geothermal heat pumps are used for space heating and cooling, and if so equipped, also to heat water. Their high efficiencies are gaining more and more popularity for both residential and commercial buildings. It's not hard to see why. Rather than obtain heat through the combustion of fossil fuels, geothermal heat pump use the natural existing heat from the earth's ground source.

Think of the temperature of the ground as that of a cave. Beneath the earth's surface, the temperature remains relatively constant. Simply put, a geothermal heat pump takes the heat stored in the earth and transfers it into your home or office. During the summer, it does the opposite by transferring the heat from your home or office back into the ground. In other words, the ground acts as a natural heat source in the winter and a heat sink during the summer months.

But how does this highly energy efficient geothermal heat pump do this? First, a series of pipes, called a 'loop,' are buried either vertically or horizontally deep in the group. A water or anti-freeze solution circulates through the surrounding soil absorbing the earth's heat, or in the summer, relinquishing heat.

During the winter, heat is removed from the fluid in the earth's connection, concentrated, and transferred into your home. The processed is reversed in the summer; heat is removed from your home, concentrated, and placed back into the ground. Voila! An energy efficient system that reduces greenhouse gas emissions, cuts your electric bill nearly in half, requires lower maintenance, and may even lower your hot water bill.

By Geothermalcredit

Geothermal Heat Pump-Residential Heating And Cooling With Geothermal Heat Pumps

2009-10-26T00:31:00.000-07:00

The term geothermal literally means Earth/Ground (Geo) Heat (thermal). Geothermal, or ground source heat pumps, take advantage of the constant ground or groundwater temperatures. These heat pumps use geothermal energy to heat and/or cool your home.

A refrigerant loop with a compressor extracts heat from one side (the ground) and pumps it to the heating loop in your home. It is essentially the same process that happens in your refrigerator: heat is extracted via a compressor and refrigerant loop from the inside of your refrigerator/freezer and rejected into your house.

In the summer the geothermal heat pump reverses its cycle, if you have an air-conditioning system, and heat from the home is rejected into the ground or ground water.

What makes geothermal heat pumps such a good choice for residential heating and cooling is that they do not depend on outside air temperatures. These heat pumps will heat your home as efficiently on a windy, zero-degree winter day as on a 40-degree day. Provided of course, that your house is well insulated and tight.

Geothermal heat pumps are also a very efficient way for heating and cooling your home. They use 25-50% less energy than conventional heating and cooling systems (Source: US DOE).

Residential applications of geothermal energy systems use water-to-water or water-to-air heat pumps.

Water-to-Water Geothermal Heat Pumps

Water-to-water geothermal heat pumps are generally used for heating only. They replace the gas or oil furnace that you might currently have to heat your home and water with.

It is important to know that heat pumps work most effectively when the temperature difference between the heat source (ground) and heat sink (floor heat or radiators) is small.

Ground temperatures range anywhere from 50 to 75 degF, depending on where you live. This means that geothermal heat pumps are generally not suitable for standard hot water baseboard applications, which are designed for heating water temperatures of 180 degF. Floor heat and low-temperature radiators require water temperatures in the range of 95 to 140 degF.

Some newer heat pump models are now equipped with so-called desuperheaters that can transfer excess heat from the geothermal heat pump compressor to the domestic water heater. Your geothermal heat pump can also effectively and quickly heat water for your bathtub, shower and sinks.

Water-To-Air Geothermal Heat Pumps

These types of ground source heat pumps are generally used when you need air conditioning. The Water is the heat sink, where you reject the heat from the house. The Air is the air that is distributed through your home via duct work.

Otherwise, these heat pumps function the same way as water-to-water heat pumps. And again, the efficiency of a geothermal heating and cooling system is far better than that of a traditional system.

Important To Know

The first step towards making a geothermal heat pump system be a reliable and efficient heating (and cooling) system for your home is to minimize the heating and cooling requirements with a well-insulated building envelope and strategically placed windows for passive solar gain.

Not only is your first cost reduced, because your system will be smaller. You will also tremendously increase the comfort of your home.

Geothermal heat pump systems are best designed and installed by professionals. It is not recommended to DIY. These systems must meet specific requirements. Especially the piping laid out in the ground, or down to the ground water table, must be designed and installed correctly to ensure that your geothermal heat pump system works as intended.

By Christiane Perrin

Clean Geothermal Heat From Geothermal Heat Pump-Geothermal Power Plants - Geothermal Power 101

2009-10-26T00:28:00.000-07:00

Geothermal power involves the use of geothermal heat from below the earth's surface to generate electricity or heat. It was Giovanni Contifirst who discovered the process of generating electricity with geothermal heat in 1904 in Larderello, Italy, but geothermal energy has been used for heating and cooling as far back as early Roman times.

Heat from the earth can be used in many ways, from utility-grade power stations to simple heat pumps for residential applications. This heat energy, known as geothermal energy, is a renewable source that can be found almost anywhere worldwide.

The heat continuously flowing from the earth's interior is estimated to be the equivalent of 42 million megawatts of power (which is equivalent to the electricity that would be used by more than 30 billion homes).

Tapping geothermal energy is a clean and affordable way to generate electricity and heat and avoid the use of fossil fuels.

Under the earth's crust is a layer of hot and molten rock called magma. Heat is continuously produced there, mostly from stored heat, friction, and the decay of naturally radioactive elements such as uranium and potassium.

The amount of heat within 33,000 feet of the earth's surface contains 50,000 times more energy than all of the oil and natural gas resources in the world!

The most common way of extracting energy from geothermal sources is to tap into naturally occurring hydrothermal convection systems where cooler water seeps into the earth's crust and is heated up before rising to the surface.

Geothermal power plants drill holes into this heated rock to capture this naturally created steam and then use the steam to drive a traditional turbine/generator system to create electricity. Geothermal fluid temperatures should be at least 300 degrees Fahrenheit, although geothermal plants are operating on fluid temperatures as low as 210 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are three main designs for geothermal power plants: dry steam, flash, and binary cycle. The ideal type of system for any particular site depends on temperature, depth, and the quality of the water and steam in the area. All three systems take hot water and steam from the ground, use the steam to generate electricity, and then return the warm water into the ground to prolong the life of the heat source.

Geothermal power plants are currently generating electricity in over 24 countries worldwide with a total output of about 8.9 gigawatts (which is enough electricity to power more than 6 million homes). The United States is the world's largest geothermal energy producer with output of about 2.8 gigawatts

By Nitram Tulp

Geothermal Heat Pump-Will the Geo Thermal Energy Generation at the Salton Sea Cause the Surrounding Areas to Sink?

2009-10-26T00:26:00.000-07:00

Many people don't realize this, but the harvesting of geothermal energy to run steam turbines to make electricity has some drawbacks. You see, the heat from the earth helps push up tectonic plates, as it expands the ground. If you remove the heat, then it causes the area to sink down a little bit. This can be a tremendous problem for underground water mains and pipes. It can also cause seismic events to occur. When we say seismic we mean earthquakes. Oh, so now I've got your attention.

That's good because this is a very serious issue. Currently, there is a geothermal energy generation plant near the Salton Sea in California, and they are taking lots of energy, heat from the earth and converting it into electricity. Then the electricity goes through a high tension power lines all the way along the I-10 corridor to Los Angeles. Yes, even those folks in California use lots of energy; don't let all their talk of green alternative energy fool you.

Still, it could be said that geothermal energy is alternative energy. But a lot of people don't know that when you take heat out of the ground it takes a while to replenish that heat. If you take too much, too quickly, the Earth doesn't have time to replace it. And this is when the pressure is released and the ground sinks down. This can also cause an earthquake, or in some instances relieve pressure and prevent an earthquake.

Therefore, if you take the heat energy from the earth in just the right place you can prevent earthquakes and get free energy. That is, if you take just the right amount of energy and not too much. All this is pretty interesting isn't it? Still, the issue of the ground sinking can also be a problem, especially if you own a home that is on the settling ground. I sure hope you will please consider all this.

By Lance Winslow

Geothermal Heat Pump-Looking To The Past Of Geothermal Energy

2009-10-26T00:22:00.000-07:00

Geothermal energy is often viewed as a relatively new form of alternative energy. In truth, the use of geothermal energy stretches far back into the past.

Looking To The Past Of Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is literally, “earth heat”. This type of energy's name comes from two Greek words: “geo” meaning earth, and “therme”, which means heat. While it may seem that the use of geothermal energy is a relatively new idea, it is actually an ancient practice. Many different cultures have used geothermal power to their advantage, dating back to some of the Earth's earliest civilizations.

In order to use geothermal energy, the energy source itself must be tapped into. Geothermal energy comes from reserves of water located in the Earth's layer of magma. Magma, otherwise known as molten rock, is a super hot substance that springs directly from the Earth's core, which is a scalding 9,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Magma heats the reserves of water located in its midst to very high temperatures, around 700 degrees Fahrenheit. These geothermal reservoirs, as they are known, can be drilled into or can escape naturally through cracks in the Earth's crust. These natural formations create such places on Earth as hot springs and geysers.

Geothermal energy can be traced back to 10,000 years ago when Native Americans used geothermal water found in hot springs to cook and for use as medicine. The geothermal energy found in hot springs was also used by the Romans. The ancient city of Pompeii used geothermal energy to heat homes. Romans also were known to use geothermal water for its medicinal properties; such as in the treatment of skin and eye diseases. Romans and other ancient civilizations also used the soothing geothermal waters found in hot springs for relaxation and natural bathing places. In more recent times, France started using this type of energy in the 1960's to heat their homes. More than 200,000 homes in France are now heated by geothermal water.

Scientists and other researchers are constantly coming up with new ways to use the Earth's latent powers. While geothermal energy has not yet shown us all it can do, it is evident that many cultures have enjoyed its power already. From the comfort of a hot springs bath to the warmth of a geothermal water heated home, the Earth has just begun to use the energy contained within its crust.

By Richard Chapo

Geothermal Heat Pump-You Decide - Weighing the Pros and Cons of Geothermal Energy

2009-10-26T00:19:00.000-07:00

There has been an ongoing debate pertaining to the pros and cons of geothermal energy. Before we can begin to discuss the advantages and disadvantages, we need to have a clear understanding of what exactly geothermal energy is.

4,000 miles below the Earth's surface is incredibly hot. It is thought to be over 7,000 degrees Fahrenheit. While this temperature is extremely dangerous and must be avoided, if you were to drill about 3 or 4 miles below the Earth's surface, you can find a hot rock that is far less dangerous, and it is at only 300 to 400 Fahrenheit. This rock and heat can be used as a constant source of heat but would prove to be very expensive.

Now while drilling and using this hot rock can be extremely expensive, there are other alternatives. In some places, only a few hundred feet below the surface there are areas that have combined this hot rock and underground water to produce hot water streams. This is the most economic source of heat below the earth and can be used in a number of ways. The heat can be used to heat homes, businesses and even run large farms or provide energy for greenhouses.

The constant source of geothermal energy comes with a number of benefits and a number of concerns. These pros and cons mostly relate to environmental issues, overall cost and reliability.

In terms of environmental effects, the impact of geothermal energy has more benefits than disadvantages. Geothermal facilities do not emit any emissions and on the whole, these factories take up far less space than any gas plants that are used for the same process. This is because the facilities do not require any underground pipelines to distribute fuel. Essentially geothermal energy is a universal contributor to a cleaner, safer and healthier environment.

On top of the environmental benefits, geothermal plants are not only more efficient but are also very reliable. The system is much simpler all around and there are a lot less problems that can occur in maintaining the facility. There is also no waste disposal and transport of fuel required to run the factory and produce energy.

The main con when discussing geothermal energy is the overall cost. The start up cost for geothermal power plants is quite substantial and this is the main argument against the energy source. However the truth is that this initial cost is often compensated for rather quickly as operation costs are extremely low in comparison to other sources of energy. The costs of drilling and maintaining these plants are also decreasing steadily.

The technology used for geothermal energy is constantly improving and geothermal plants are becoming more readily available. There is no denying the technology involved and once we continue to lower the overall cost, there will be no limit to the benefits that we can take advantage of through the use of geothermal energy.

By Darren W.Chow

Geothermal Heat Pump-Energy Within - Using Geothermal Energy

2009-10-26T00:17:00.000-07:00

This means of energy production uses the heat of the earth to generate power. Currently around 8,000 MW of electricity, with 2,800 MW in the United States alone. As with many other alternative sources,geothermal shows great potential. In a report released last year, the U.S. Geological Survey estimates that the geothermal potential in the U.S. alone is between 95,000 and 150,000 MWe (megawatts of electric power). A report issued just last year by MIT estimates the world'sgeothermal potential using Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) at more than to be over 13,000 ZJ (a zettajoule is 1021) of which over 200 ZJ would be extractable with current technology.

Geothermal Technology

There are two basic types of geothermal power plants currently in use. Steam plants can use the hot water and very hot steam (over 300F) to power a turbine that feeds a generator directly ("dry steam") or they can depressurize the very high-pressure and temperature water to create steam ("flash steam"). The only emission in enough quantity to be significant is steam, although minute amounts of CO2, NOx and sulfur are released (in amounts almost 50 less than the amounts emitted at fossil fuel plants). Currently steam plants can generate electricity for about 4 cents to 6 cents per kWh.

Binary plants can operate at locations with lower temperatures ((100 F to 300 F), which is more readily available. Hot water passes through aheat exchanger along with a working fluid that has a lower boiling point (e.g., isobutene, isopentane). The working fluid vaporizes, turning the turbines and powering the generators.

Because this system is a closed loop, there are no emissions. Currently steam plants can generate electricity for about 5 cents to 8 cents per kWh. Because the lower-temperaturegeothermal locations are more plentiful, most plants are binary.

Geothermal energy can also be used a direct heat source. Nearly all the houses in Iceland are heated with water from hot springs, and the country generates more than half its energy fromgeothermal sources. If the heat is there but the water is not, energy can still be extracted. Pumping water through hot rock heats the water and can be used directly or to generate power.

Underground heat pumps are also a form of geothermal energy, these work like refrigerators in reverse. Believe it or not, you don't have to dig very deep to find the level of earth that stays at a fairly constant temperature - usually about 8 feet.Heat pumps use pipes (buried well below the frost line) that circulate a refrigerant through a cycle of condensing and evaporating between twoheat exchangers. One heat exchanger evaporates at low pressure and absorbs heat . A compressor pushes the refrigerant vapor, now at high pressure, to other coil where the refrigerant condenses and releases theheat. Unlike refrigerators and air conditioners, heat pumps can work in both directions-heating and cooling. Energy cost savings with a ground-based heat pump are substantial.

Geothermal Power Advantages

1.Geothermal energy produces little or no emissions.
2. In most cases, the "fuel" is free, although with the "hot rock" method water must be used, and may have to be transported there. Once the power stations are built they cost very little to operate.
3.Geothermal power plants usually have a small footprint, and very little environmental impact.
4.Ground-based heat pumps can be used almost anywhere. If you're thinking that they won't work in your snowy neck of the woods, consider that they are used extensively in Canada.

Geothermal Power Disadvantages

1.Geothermal cannot be considered a renewable resource (although it is a sustainable one).
2.Not every area has accessible geothermal sources. The hot rocks and water must be within drilling range (except in the case of natural geysers).
3.Geothermal sites can run out of steam, as their temperatures drop to low. This can happen naturally or if a "hot rock" extraction method is mismanaged, and the water injected cools the rocks.
4.Along with the hot water and/or steam, geothermal sources can also yield up harmful gases and minerals.
5.Drilling deep into the ground, especially when water is then pumped into the holes, can set off "small seismic events" - earthquakes.
6.While research can suggest likely places for geothermal power plants, there is no guarantee a given site will produce enough energy to offset the capital expenditure and operating costs.

What Can You Do?

Ocean and earth power gives you a lot of options. We've collected the ideas from this chapter-hydropower, tidal power, wave power, ocean thermal conversion, andgeothermal power- at the end to remind you of the variety, and to reinforce the idea that while there is no single perfect alternative energy source for the world, or even the country, there are many that in combination could be the perfect solution for you. Much depends on where you live and what resources you have.

1.If you have a river, stream, brook, waterfall or some other running water nearby, look into installing a micro hydro system to generate some or all of your electricity.
2.If you live on a body of water that experiences tides, you may be able to use them to your advantage. Naturally you won't be damming up estuaries to power your house (your own personal tide mill), but it is possible that you could implement something on a much smaller scale that powers, say, your dock lights. Realistically, however, what you'll be doing is keeping up with the technology so you'll know when someone has developed something with a more personal application.
3.While none of the wave power technologies are available as personal-size power stations, if you live somewhere that has strong, consistent waves, you may be able to adapt some of the techniques.
4.While you probably don't have a geyser in your yard, you might be able to install a ground-based heat pump to heat and cool your house.

By Kevin Rockwell

Geothermal Heat Pump-Geothermal Energy Facts

2009-10-26T00:14:00.000-07:00

One of the lesser known renewable energy sources geothermal electricity is created by using the heat contained underground by magma. This magma heats rocks and sometimes travel directly through water sources below the surface heating it up. We extract this water and run it through pipes which surround another set of pipes that contains a liquid with a low boiling point. This causes the liquid to turn into a vapor which can then be used to run steam turbines. Here are some interesting geothermal energy facts for your edification.

No fuel is consumed in the process of creating geothermal electricity and so it's emission free.

Multiple types of power plants exist which include; binary cycle power plants, hot dry rock geothermal energy, dry steam plants, flash steam plants, direct heat, and geothermal heat pump. The most common being binary cycle. Large capacity for generation since the energy source (hot water) is constantly supplied. Heat extracted from below ground is extremely small although it could potentially be used up after millions of years. Power plants don't take up very much space since the main components are underground pumping the water. The fluids used that have low boiling points are corrosive and therefore take extra maintenance and care when handling. Carbon dioxide and sulfur can be emitted as a byproduct of geothermal electricity due to being present in the water. Iceland and the Philippines make the most use of geothermal energy and it creates around 25% of their electricity. They are by far the leaders in this area of energy production.

There is a lot to learn about if you want to completely understand this topic but hopefully the above has taught you some of the basics and more interesting things to know. Some things to look into more would be the different types of water reservoirs that exist which are tapped and some more specific information about the above listed methods of geothermal electricity generation.

By Michael L.Leigh

Geothermal Heat Pump-Geothermal Energy - Free Heat

2009-10-26T00:11:00.000-07:00

What in the world is geothermal energy? Geothermal energy is energy that is collected by piercing the reservoirs of heat that are trapped and stored underground. If you happen to reside in the western part of the United States, Alaska or Hawaii, you are located in a perfect spot to take advantage ofgeothermal energy for heating and cooling your home. These areas are located on or near "hot spots" on the earth's surface. Heating and cooling systems can be installed in other areas of the country but they would require digging down to a greater depth.

Geothermal resources are the most abundant and longest lasting resources we have. Our earth is home to so much thermal nuclear energy that it should be able to provide power for all of civilization for almost eternity. That is a very long time. According to theGeothermal Resource Data, there are more usable geothermal energy resources under our feet then all of the oil, coal, gas, and mineable nuclear fuels combined. There is only one problem; the initial cost of installing a heating and cooling system is very, very expensive. Even though this system will probably pay for itself in about ten years, the average homeowner usually can not afford to tap into this goldmine of freeheat.

However, if you are one of the people who are able to take advantage of the abundant supply of heat that is free for the taking, you will have an opportunity to experience a new, more comfortable way of heating and cooling your home.

By James Smithers

Residential Heating And Cooling With Geothermal Heat Pump

2009-10-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

Investing in a Geothermal Heat Pump in a Heating System

2009-10-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

Investing in a Geothermal Heat Pump System

You may or may not of heard of a geothermal heat pump system. If you have, than you have probably even though about installing a system and seeing how it works. I’ll give you all the details and the low down to what the system is, how it works and how much money save you save.

What is a geothermal heat pump system? : A Geothermal Heat Pump System (GHPS) is a system of pipes and tubes which run underneath a property and collect the warm air from the Earth and then transfer it to the home. No heat is created in the process; air is only transported from underground to above ground. This system can be used to cool or warm up the house depending on the needs of the consumer. The tubes collect the air from underground and then run parallel to your floors and release the free heat into the surrounding room.

How does it work? : A series of tubes, connected to a device called a heat pump, run underneath a home underground. These tubes are filled with a liquid, normally some sort of refrigerant, and the whole system works just like the tubes in a refrigerator. The tubes transport the liquid underground and then back up where they enter the heat pump. The pump then removes the heat from the liquid and the liquid enters the pipe system to once again receive the heat from the Earth. The heat removed from the pipes enters the house and warms it up. This process is reversed in the winter to cool down your home.

Why use a GHPS? : There are plenty of reasons why to use a geothermal heat pump system. In the long run it will save you money. The step up cost is large but after a few years, 2-10 on average, you will have saved much more money and evened up the costs of heating had you stayed with a conventional system. They provide a free source of constant heating that will never run out. They are quiet. It can be installed inside a home rather then having components built up in the outdoors, or having an air conditioner leaning out your window. The system is very clean and the average family can reduce their carbon footprint by 2.5 to 5 tons of CO2 per year. It quite low maintenance and the pipes don’t have to be cleaned out by any unnecessary means such as removal of the pipes. It has many uses such as heating up your floors, keeping your driveways and walkways snow free in the winter, hot water for appliances and hot water for any uses.

How much money can I save with a GHPS? : A system can save you 35-70% of your energy costs per year. From 400-1400$/Yr. As well as yearly savings, the resale value of a home can increase by over 20 000$ on average.

How much does a system cost? : For a typical 2000 sq. ft. home, a system can cost from 5000 to 12000$. On average, a typical geothermal system costs 10000$ to install for the first time. Many states and government programs offer incentives to buying and installing a system that will reduce the cost. As well as maintenance is rather cheap and rare in between. Systems typically last over 30 years before components need to be replaced.

Is a geothermal heating system a good investment? : Yes, if you can afford it. We don’t want anyone going into long-term debt with the massive initial cost of the system, however if you plan accordingly the amount of money you’ll get back by the system will be enormous. You’ll be doing yourself a good deed in saving a lot of money in the long run, and you’ll also be doing the Earth a good deed by reducing your carbon footprint. The initial cost of a system may be large, but the overall savings are greater.

By David Pierson

Geothermal Heat Pump-How Does Geothermal Heating Work?

2009-10-18T08:28:00.000-07:00

What is Geothermal Heating?

Humans have been using geothermal power for heating purposes for centuries. This specific type of energy has been contained within the heat that lies in the core of the earth since the planet was formed. The heat comes from radioactive decay of minerals as well as from solar energy that is absorbed at the earth's surface. Humans have figured out how to harvest this energy and put it to use in the form of heating. Typically, the heat is harvested near tectonic plate boundaries. In these regions, the ground as well as groundwater display temperatures higher than the target output.

A typical application involves a ground source heat pump underneath or near a home, that extracts the earth's natural energy and transforms it into usable heating output.

What are the benefits?

The chief benefit of using this type of heating system is energy conservation. In times when "going green" is the order of the day, this benefit is not to be taken lightly. Geothermal heating systems use up to 25% to 50% less electricity than conventional heating or cooling systems. Basically, this means that a geothermal heat pump uses one unit of electricity to extract three units of heat from the earth.

This natural form of heating can also help improve humidity control by maintaining about 50% relative indoor humidity, making geothermal heat pumps very helpful in humid climates.

Because these systems have no outdoor condensing units, like air conditioners have, you don't have to worry about a noisy apparatus outside your home.

How Does it Work?

To understand how this type of heating system works, it's important to understand its parts. A regular heat pump has an outdoor unit called condenser and an indoor unit that's called an evaporator coil. A material called a refrigerant transports the heat from one area to another. When compressed, it is a high temperature, high-pressure liquid. If it is allowed to expand, it transforms into a low temperature, low pressure gas. The gas then absorbs heat.

In the winter a regular heat pump system extracts heat from outdoor air and transfers it inside where it is circulated through your home's ductwork by a fan.

Geothermal heat pumps are built on the same basic premise as regular heat pumps. The difference is that the geothermal type draws heat from the earth instead of from outdoor air. The heat from the earth is considered to be stable and even. In addition to providing heating for your home, this type of energy can also provide air conditioning and in most cases, hot water.

These heat pumps move heat from the earth into your house in the winter, and pull the heat from your home in the summer and move it into the ground by using a series of pipes. This series of pipes is called a "loop." The loop is installed under the surface of the ground. Fluid travels through the loop, collecting heat from the ground (in the winter) and carries it to the house. There, an electrically driven compressor and a heat exchanger condense the Earth's heat and discharge it inside the house at a higher temperature. Ductwork then disperses the heat to different rooms.

With air conditioning, the technique is reversed. The underground loop draws out surplus heat from the house and allows it to be absorbed by the Earth where it is then stored. The system cools your home in the same way that a refrigerator keeps your food cold - by pulling heat from the inside, not by blowing in cold air.

By Amy Nutt

Geothermal Heat Pump-Geothermal Heating

2009-10-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

Geothermal heating is a process that has been used since the Roman times. It is a way of heating buildings/spas by utilising sources of hot water that already exist near the earth's surface. In places where Geothermal resources are available it is possible to distribute hot water to multiple buildings. The Geothermal Heating process is seen frequently in countries such as; Reykjavik, Iceland, Idaho and the USA.

In more recent years Geothermal Heating has been done through the use of a Geothermal heat pump. This heating and air conditioning system uses the earth's ability to store heat in the ground and in water thermal masses. These masses absorb and hold heat. During sunny days when heat is not needed, this thermal mass stores the heat and then releases it when the weather becomes overcast or during night time when the atmosphere has cooled down.

A Geothermal Heat Pump uses land mass as a heat exchanger and operates on the ground. It will stay at the temperature of 50 °F (10 °C) all year round, with a water-source heat pump using the available heat in winter and putting it back into the ground in the summer.

Electricity produced from renewable sources such as solar and wind power can also be used by a Geothermal Heat Pump to heat spaces and water. This renewable energy can be more efficient than an electric heater at heating spaces and water.

By using this renewable energy through a Geothermal Heat Pump it heats buildings without the need to transport and burn biomass on the site. Geothermal Heat Pumps are also straightforward and do not require a high knowledge of technology.

A Geothermal Heat Pump differs from a furnace or boiler as it can transfer heat and not just produce it. Although it does cost more to install a Geothermal Heat Pump; having one to heat your home and or business is cost effective as it will save you on average between 35 and 70% on your heating and air conditioning costs. The reason behind the height of the installation cost is because the age, the geology of the area, location of your property and square footage of living area has to be taken into consideration.

There are three components that are required for a Geothermal Heat Pump:

• A loop Field - this can be either horizontal or vertical. A loop field is a series of looped tubes that carry heated water from the ground to the heat pump. The length and capacity of the loop fields vary, the bigger the structure the bigger the length and capacity of the geothermal heating component. Also based on the geothermal unit, the liquid in the loops could be in direct contact or indirect contact with the heat source.

• Liquid Pump Pack - This sends water through the loop field and the water source heat pump

• Water Source Heat Pump - This heat pump replaces the furnace or boiler. The heat from the loop field is transferred via this pump to heat the property.

A Geothermal Heat Pump is environmentally friendly, a renewable source of energy, non polluting and becoming one of the most efficient heating and cooling systems that are available

By Helen Cox

Geothermal Heat Pump-Home Heating Systems

2009-10-18T08:16:00.000-07:00

Geothermal home heating systems, also known as ground source heat pumps, is a system that transfers the temperature from the ground to your home.

It uses stored solar energy from the ground beneath to provide energy for heating and hot water. Though the term Geothermal heating, as it is frequently referred to, sounds as though it uses hot rock energy it is, in most cases, stored solar energy.

In winter the heat pump collects the Earth's natural heat through pipes, called a loop, and installed below the surface of the ground or submersed in a pond or lake. Fluid circulating through the loop carries the heat to your home. There, a compressor and a heat exchanger, driven by electricty, concentrate the Earth's heat and release it inside the home at a higher temperature. The heat is carried to different rooms by ductwork.

The process is reversed in the summer. The underground loop draws excess heat from your home so it can be absorbed by the Earth, using it as a heat sink. The system cools your home just as a refrigerator keeps your food cool - by pulling heat from the interior, not by blowing in cold air.

Your geothermal heat pump can be either vetical or horizontal. In a vertical system the pipes may go to a depth of up to 650 feet.. this will minimize the amount of land surface required and keep disruption to a minimum.

Vertical coils are ideal for installation where space is limited, fitted to a depth of up to 200 metres minimising the land required on the surface, keeping disruption to a minimum.

The loop can be closed or open and horizontal or vertical.

An open loop system uses two wells. It draws water from one, passes it through the heat exchanger and then discharges the water into the second well. It takes about two or three gallons a minute per ton of capacity for effective heat exchange.

A closed loop system uses water, or a water/antifreeze solution to collect or ditribute the heat.

A closed loop horizontal geothermal heat installation involves burying pipes in trenches. A closed loop vertical system uses a U-tube installed in a well drilled 100 to 400 feet deep

A third closed loop type is a pond closed loop. Closed loop coils can be placed on the bottom of a pond or stream with enough depth and flow. Fluid is pumped in the same way as a closed loop ground system. The economics of This geothermal heat system is very economical, and without impact on the pond.

A geothermal home heating system makes sense because:

* It uses a completely free and renewable source of energy
* It works with and not against nature and has virtually no enviromental impact
* CO2 emissions are reduces
* Low maintenance costs are low
* Geothermal home heating systems add value to property
* Compatible with most modern heating systems - ideal for under floor heating
* You get up to 70% fuel bill savings
* Easy to use

By Art Lynch

Ground Source Heat Pumps (Geothermal Heat Pump) - Heat and Cool Your Home Without Gas Or Oil

2009-10-18T08:13:00.000-07:00

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs), often called geothermal heat pumps, tap into the heat naturally generated many meters below the surface of the earth. Just a little ways down, the earth's temperature is warm and relatively stable, so these systems can bring controllable and effective heating, cooling, and hot water to residential and commercial buildings. Best of all, they allow people to do all this without having to use expensive and carbon-producing fossil fuels such as oil and gas.

There are two types of ground source heat pump systems: those with closed loops and those with open loops. In closed loop systems, liquid (usually with some sort of anti freezing/anti boiling agent mixed in) circulates through pipes buried beneath the earth's surface. During the winter, when the goal is warming a house, the fluid absorbs heat from the earth and carries back to the building. This very hot liquid can be effectively used to heat a home, and also quite obviously becomes a free-flowing source of useable hot water. During the summer, the system is designed to actually draw heat out of the building, and either use it to heat water for household use or deliver it back into the ground. Open looped systems are similar, except that the water supply within the pipes is continually refreshed.

The bulk of geothermal (GSHP) systems are the pipes that are buried far underground, so what is needed in your home is a unit likely no bigger than your current hot water heater and furnace. If you currently use oil, you may be able to get rid of or at least substantially downsize the size of your oil tank. Many people worry about the longevity and upkeep costs of this type of system because the bulk of the cost goes into burying the pipe underground. Recently however many companies have been offering 40-75 year warranties on the parts of the system that is buried.

If you already have a forced air oil or gas-fed furnace system it may be easy for you to convert to what is called a "dual system". In this case you would choose which heating and cooling system would be primary at any particular time - most likely the geothermal system - and the other system will only work when needed, such as during an extremely cold spell in the winter.

GSHPs are quiet and safe. There are no exposed parts, fans, storage tanks, etc. that can hurt kids or pets. Nothing is burned so there is no flame. The heating source is the earth so there is nothing to wear out. They are also quiet because the earth is doing the work of the motors in your current furnace.

The initial cost for ground source heat pumps is greater than that of a conventional oil or gas system. However, that initial cost is often made up in three to six years depending on the cost of fuel and the temperature in your area. The greatest benefit of these systems is that you no longer have to use oil or gas at all, so not only are you not subject to the price fluctuations and uncertainty of these fuels, but you also reduce your own "carbon footprint" in the process.

Ground source systems are easy to install, particularly when they are replacing another forced-air system. In this case it is as simple as a retrofit after the pipes are placed. However, they can also be installed to completely replace the system you already have. If you don't already have central air conditioning, that can be an automatic and immediate benefit of these systems. Contact an experienced installer and he or she can tell you exactly what would be involved in installing a geothermal heat pump in your home.

By Alan Jacobson

Geothermal Heat Pump and Radiant Heating - An Absolutely Fabulous Combination

2009-10-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

Geothermal Heat Pumps are usually associated with hot air heating and air conditioning. In climates that very seldom need air conditioning you need to concentrate more on heating. There is a very good way to use geothermal technology for very efficient and comfortable heating. Radiant floor heating can very easily be combined with a geothermal heat pump to give both comfort and efficiency.

Radiant floor heating has been the comfort and efficiency standard for many years. The feeling of a warm floor under your feet is priceless. Romping on the floor while playing with the children is great when the snow is blowing and the floor is pleasantly warm.

Geothermal heating has also been known for it's efficiency also. The drawback to hot air geothermal heating has been the air temperatures that are cooler than normal hot air heating systems. By combining the two types of systems you can have very comfortable heat and efficiency at the same time.

There are something's that you do have to take into consideration before deciding on a system like this.
You will have to drill a few wells to extract the heat from the ground. The piping must be installing in the wells correctly for the system to work properly. The heat pump needs to be designed for hot water heating. You can not use a heat pump designed for hot air use and make it work for radiant heating. The radiant heat design must be figured to use water temperatures that are cooler than many radiant heat systems. A maximum temperature design should be 130 degrees F. To get this kind of design to work correctly you will have to use good quality heat plates and insulated under the heat plates. By following these guidelines I have designed systems that have heated houses very comfortably at temperatures well below zero.

If you decide to install this type of system make sure that the installer knows exactly what they are doing. This type of system requires many things to be done exactly right so that the water flows will allow the system to work correctly. The piping on the well side is very critical that it uses all the wells equally. On the house side the piping must be primary/secondary. Pumps and pipe sizes must be able to give very high flow rates so that temperature drop is kept to ten degrees or less. When working with such low temperature the piping and pumping becomes so much more critical.

By using these principles to combine two very great heating types you can have a very good heating system that perform very well for many years. The only other factor with this type of system is that you don not have the ability to get cooling from the system. That is probably the only drawback of this type of system. It would be great if there was a geothermal unit made that was heating only. The elimination of the reversing valve would be a cost savings and a plus overall. This system is best suited for cooler climates that require little or no air conditioning.

By D.Floyd Kolb

Geothermal Heat Pump-Review

2009-10-14T02:23:00.000-07:00

How does a Geothermal Heat Pump get the heat from the ground? The heat pump utilizes a loop of refrigerant sucked through a vapor compressed refrigeration cycle moving heat either in or out. The source of heat is actually much more stable and continuing then air based heat which tends to be less controlled. The other benefit is that Geothermal Heat pumps can also be used to pump the heat out of your house for instant cooling during hot weather. Geothermal heat pumps are also more economically friendly and can reduce the effects of pollution, electricity, and global warming.

What are the different kinds of Geothermal Heat Pumps? So far some of the different types of geothermal heat pumps in existence are; Ground Exchange, Direct Exchange, closed loop, vertical, horizontal, pond, open loop, and finally standing column well.

• Ground Exchange - This type of heat pump uses the grounds current heat and exchanges it with the temperatures in your home. If you plan to have a ground sourced heat pump then you will need a heat exchanger which sits against either ground or ground water to make the pump function properly.

• Direct Exchange - Instead of using a circulating refrigerant the direct exchange geothermal heat pump works by using a SINGLE loop refrigerant in direct thermal contact with the ground.

• Closed loop - The typical system uses two loops on the ground side and one loop located in the appliance cabinet which exchanges temperatures with the loop which is pulling the temperatures from the ground. Closed loop systems have much longer and larger pipes implemented into the ground for better accuracy and also have an extra loop located in between the refrigerant loop and the water loop, pumping in both loops.

Closed loops come in two different types themselves one being the vertical closed loop and the other is the horizontal closed loop. The difference between the two being the vertical closed pump has pipes which run vertical through the ground while the horizontal closed loops have pipes running horizontally through the ground.

• Pond - Pond based heat pumps are not commonly used due to the need to be close to an external source of water. Pond based heat pumps are more preferred and recommended for people who want to use a pump but have bad quality water, or a low heat source currently containable by a standard heat pump. The Pond based heat pump gets its name from the fact that the loop dragging in the heat is located underneath a large body of water, for example a pond.

• Open Loop - An open loop is a heat pump which draws in water from an external source stores it in the main refrigerant where heat is extracted from the water source and the water is then returned to the external source.

• Standing column well - A standing column well heat pump is much like an open loop heat pump except it is designed to pull in water from deep within a well and exchange it for heat in the main refrigerant where it is then returned back into the well while traveling down it exchanges heat with the bedrock.

How does a geothermal heat pump work in large buildings?

A geothermal heat pump works in all different ways each make varying depending on its best function for what it is replacing. For example a heat pump moves anywhere in between three and five times faster than the heat or electricity in which it consumes it is actually outputting more energy than it is inputting this causes the efficiency of thermals to exceed anywhere between 100 and 200 percent. While your average electric device will typically never exceed 100%. This proving that a geothermal heat pump will always exceed the performance of the electric device it is equivalently designed against for a specific building or structures size.

What is the environmental impact of geothermal heat pumps?

The impact is to be frank very positive, producing less greenhouse gases, and built to be biodegradable and non toxic in the external sources. But the negative side is that the refrigerant system uses a type of refrigerant which is actually a cause of depleting the ozone layer. This refrigerant is called chlorodiflouromethane, it is harmless when used properly but leaks can cause the ozone layer to deplete. But don't worry this product has been favored out and is being replaced with a more environmentally safe product.

Online resource in USA to buy Heat Pump, Geothermal Heat Pump, Air Conditioners where the homeowners pay low wholesale price.

Michael J.Owen

geothermal energy:Install a Geothermal Heat Pump-Geothermal Heat Pump

2009-10-05T09:43:00.000-07:00

Today's geothermal systems outperform the best gas technology, by an average of 36% in heating mode and 43% in cooling mode. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency geothermal heat pump are the most energy-efficient, environmentally clean, and most cost-effective space conditioning systems available.

There is no doubt that geothermal heat pump are the low hanging fruit of energy efficiency, which is a bit like picking apples or oranges off a tree. The simple part of picking fruit is the easy-to-reach apples or oranges. Once these have been picked it gets harder, reaching on tippy-toes, until we finally start dragging the ladder around. Geothermal heat pumps are low-hanging-fruit, and utilizing this resource really is a no-brainer.

Over the last 50 years heat pumps have evolved from backyard experiments designed by enthusiasts into mainstream technology. Not that this is really new technology as the Romans many centuries ago heated their baths using a similar concept. Of course the systems these days are much more efficient, and can deliver between 2.5-4.5 units of heat for every unit of energy consumed. This means they are generally 1.4 times more energy efficient than a gas fired boiler.

Apart from being cost effective, geothermal heat pump deliver gentle heat to your home without producing any soot at your home or any other toxic exhaust. www.ghp-books.com provides in-depth detail on installation, so you can understand how to make this free energy work for you. With the rebates and grants available to buffer the capital cost, it is a great time to save money on heating and cooling costs, while doing your bit for the environment.

article by Stephens Ewings

Geothermal Energy:The Pros and Cons of Geothermal Heat Pump - comparison

2009-09-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

Is geothermal heat right for you? If you are looking to upgrade your heating system and being 'earth-friendly' is important to you, then you will be considering geothermal as an alternative.

The basics of geothermal is to tap into the earth's constant temperature and use this to heat and cool your home. By running an intricate system of water pipes you can heat or cool the water to a consistent 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) and transfer it to your home heating/cooling system.

The issue for geothermal is not whether it is earth-friendly. It is much better than our convential home heating and cooling sources. The carbon impact is greatly reduced, and you will have a significant reduction in gas/oil/electric charges. The system does not require any chemicals, such as R11,R12, or R134A to ensure your home stays cool in the summer months. In the winter months, your furnace is only needed to bring the temperature up to a comfortable temperature, 5 degrees centigrade of heating.

With these in mind your are helping the environment a tremendous amount and reducing your heating and cooling charges.

So why are we not all converting our homes to geo-thermal heat?

The answer comes to cost. It is expensive to introduce this system, whether you are building new or upgrading your current system, your are going to spend an average of $35 000 (this is an average, for accurate cost consult your local contractor.) For most it is a cost that is out of reach. It does not increase the monetary value of your home, so you need to consider how long it will take to pay the system off.

Based on my home (which has electric heat) and my neighbors home (which has geo-thermal) I compared our respective electric bills over this past winter. For background I live in Manitoba, Canada. Our average winter temperature is -18 degrees celcius (0 F) with wind chill indexes of -30 C (-22 F). Their home is not yet a year old and 1450 square feet with no basement. Mine was built in 1988, is 2500 square feet and has no basement.

Over this past winter (2008/2009), my average electrical bill was $367. Their average electrical bill was $154. Removing the fact that my home is larger and I have one extra person living in the house, I am going to look at how long it would take me to pay for a geo-thermal system.

With a difference in monthly bills of $213 dollars, and the average cost of geothermal at $35 000, it would take me 164 months to break even with the system. (This is based on current expenses, and does not factor in that electrical and gas bills will be increasing in the future). 164 months is 13.5 years before I can start to realize any savings.

The chances of me living in this house in 13.5 years is slim, it is reported that most people move every 5 to 8 years, that being the case, I would not recoup my expenses on the geo-thermal system.

What choices do we have then?

Consider yourself and your family. Will you be living in your present home for the next 15 years or more. If yes, then geo-thermal is definitely a choice you can consider. If no, then you probably won't put in the geo-thermal system as you will not pay for the system by the time you move.

Are there alternatives to geothermal? Yes you have other methods of making an earth-friendly home. You may wish to look into solar or wind power to 'get off the grid'.

Whenever the discussion of being more environmentally conscience comes up, we have a lot of experts telling us what we should do, but few of them consider the cost. As an average citizen of the world, we want to reduce our consumption, but at the same time we need to think of our budgets. If geothermal is not within your budget, then research to see what other choices you may have.

article by C.M.Babcock

Geothermal heat Pump-The Manufacturers - The Face Behind a Wonderful Device

2009-09-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

Heat pump manufacturers abound the market. Perhaps it is due to the competitive arena of the production of the machine itself. Since the device has gained in popularity among people, its market has consequently increased and thus this attracted many players to come in. The machine is very useful in various industries especially in refrigeration, air conditioning and reversible cycle for thermal comfort due to its heat movement capacity. In addition, because the device can actually give so much comfort, it surely will never leave out the market, thereby giving assurance to investors to this market that they will not lose profit.

Buyers will never encounter problems in locating heat pump manufacturers. Most have advertised their company addresses on-line along with specific store locations for costumers to find them. With just one click, you will be able to determine if one shop is distantly located from your place or not. Manufacturers have also included in their web advertisements the specification and designs of the line of products they have created for their buyers. Most companies specialize on a particular type of this heating and cooling equipment while others produce a wide line of items, which outwits other companies through faster design development or through addition of sound and attractive features.

A long list of makers is present in the web but you might also find international associations of heat pump manufacturers, which can help you, decide on which product to buy. This includes the following: Ground Source Association, International Ground Source Association, Geothermal Consortium, European Association, European Network, and Heat Pump Association.

* Ground Source Association - this organization has evolved from the Ground Source Heat Pump Club and which was launched in 2006. The association also is aiming towards influencing government leaders in producing relevant policies that supports sustainable consumption of geothermal energy sources.
* International Ground Source Association - a nonprofit association of manufacturers, which was established in 1987, which aims to frequently improve the quality of geothermal type of heat pumps, produced and marketed by its members. The organization provides training and access to latest advancements in geothermal technology to its members.
* Geothermal Consortium - The group's name is divided into "Geo" which means Earth and "Exchange" which refers to the process by which geothermal heat is converted into various conveniences and whose starting origin is the heat coming from the Earth's interior and is transported to different places to cool homes.
* Heat Pump association - is the towering authority in the UK when it comes to heat pumps manufacturers. It promotes the use of latest technology on the development of this machine and prides in its members who were successful in the production of trusted products.

article by Martin Applebaum

Geothermal heat Pump-What are the Cost ?

2009-09-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

Utilizing free energy from the earth beneath your feet, it is undeniable that geothermal is environmentally friendly and responsible. Geothermal heating and cooling uses the relatively constant temperature of the earth to heat and cool homes and businesses with 40% to 70% less energy than conventional systems. It also has the added benefit of providing free domestic hot water during the summer season and reduced cost for domestic hot water during the winter. All of these benefits sound good on top of "going green" but it all comes down to one final question. How much will this cost? Is geothermal "green" in both an investment perspective as well as an environment perspective?

Installation for geothermal heat pumps have a high upfront cost. There are a lot of variables--where you live, the ground to be drilled, the square foot of the house--and though everyone agrees about its high initial expense, how much that is remains vague at best. A general idea for cost would be twice the price of a regular heat pump system with air conditioning. A geothermal heat pump costs about $2,500 per ton of capacity, with the typically sized house needing a three-ton unit and putting the cost at roughly $7,500. Installation can bump the costs up to $10,000 or more depending on depth of pipes, type of equipment, and soil conditions.

On the flip side, the geothermal heat pumps offer high efficiency and low operating cost. Savings on the electric bill are immediate and considerable. According to the EPA, geothermal heat pumps can save homeowners 30 to 70 percent on heating and 20 to 50 percent on cooling costs over conventional systems. Average consensus is that it will take about 5-10 years to see a return in the investment but that utilizing geothermal energy could prove a good financial decision for the long-term homeowner. To encourage the switch to a renewable energy source, some utility companies and agencies may pay a rebate and energy Star-rated ground-source heat pumps may qualify for federal tax credit.

In the end, geothermal heat pumps are durable and require little maintenance. They have fewer mechanical problems and the underground piping used is often guaranteed to last 25 to 50 years. Quiet to operate and pollution free, geothermal heat pumps are an underused technology with a huge potential in the long run. Despite the debate on costs and the tough initial decision, figures indicate that 95% of heat pump owners would recommend a similiar system to their friends or family.

article by June Z Smith

Geothermal heat Pump-Choosing the Right Heat Pump

2009-09-17T09:10:00.000-07:00

Heat Pumps aren't a new technology, or even one which has recently undergone a scientific breakthrough which has catapulted them into the spot light! In fact, Heat Pumps have been around for many years. What has brought them back into the spot light is the increasing awareness of the way our lives have an impact on the environment and the ways we can change our homes to reduce this impact.

Heat Pumps offer today's home and business owners a sustainable alternative to gas, oil and electric heating; all of which use non-renewable fossil fuels to generate heat for the home. Instead of this, Heat Pumps use the natural heat which exists within the atmosphere and ground to generate the same heat. As a result we can now heat our home and water supply from a completely self-sufficient and an in-exhaustible supply of fuel!

So, how does a Heat Pump work? Well, the three main types of Heat Pump are: Air Source Heat Pumps Ground Source Heat Pumps Geothermal Heat Pumps

Lets break them down...

The Air Source Heat Pumps

The Air Source Heat Pump is possibly the hardest of the three to figure out. Basically, it steals heat from the air! That's it! In the opposite way to how a refrigerator steals heat from the interior of the fridge and expels it out of the back; an Air Source Heat Pump steals latent heat from the air outside your home, compresses it and transfers that heat to your water and central heating supply.

One question that I can hear everyone asking is "but what happens when its cold outside" -- which is the time when you really need a Heat Pump to work!? Well to explain that we need to think about the way particles behave. At Absolute Zero (-273.15°C or 0 Kelvin) a particle is perfectly still but when we start to increase the temperature the particle starts to vibrate, as we increase the temperature further the particle vibrates more and so on. This vibration is energy and it is this energy which can be used to create heat for your home. In fact, high quality Air Source Heat Pumps can extract perfectly usable heat from temperatures as low as -22°C

The Ground Source Heat Pump

Boiling away under our feet is a furnace of molten rock so vast it is hard for our minds to comprehend! It is an almost infinite supply of energy and it is what our very existence depends on. Within this molten rock there is a huge amount of un-tapped heat energy and this is projected up through the Earth and into the ground we walk upon.

As the name suggests, a Ground Source Heat Pump uses coiled tubing, laid deep in the ground to extract the natural heat energy from the Earth. This heat is then compressed and transferred into the home as a usable form of heat for your central heating and water supply.

The Geothermal Heat Pump

A Geothermal Heat Pumps works in a similar way to a Ground Source Heat Pump; in that it extracts heat energy from the ground. But instead of burying a closed loop of piping within the ground Geothermal Heat Pumps make use of very deep bore holes which drill straight down into the Earth. Pipe systems can then be buried as near to the hotter depths as possible and in exactly the same way.

In Summary

The three varieties of Heat Pump are right for different situations and scenarios. But one fact rings true for all three... Once you have paid for the Heat Pump you will have an in-exhaustible supply of heat for your home for many, many, many years to come!

article by Mathew Inertia

Geothermal heat Pump-The Efficiency of a Geothermal Heat Pump

2009-09-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Geothermal heat pumps harness the temperature of the ground or the groundwater and use it to heat or cool your home. This process utilizes the natural temperature of the earth to control the indoor climate of your home.

in and out cooling

A loop with a compressor takes heat from the ground and pumps it into the inside heating loop, circulating the natural heat throughout the house. In the summer months, a geothermal heat pump will work in reverse, channeling the warmer air and forcing it into the ground. This prevents the air conditioner from having to work extra hard to cool your home.

Geothermal heat pumps are an extremely energy efficient way to heat and cool your home. They can use up to 50% less energy than traditional heating and cooling systems.

A major benefit to using these energy saving heat systems is that you won't have to worry about what the external air temperature is or the conditions of the weather outside. They do not depend on the air temperature outside, but rather the temperature of the ground. This means that your geothermal air system will work just as efficiently on a mild day as a blustery winter day.

There are two types of geothermal heat pump, water-to-water and water-to-air. A water-to-water heat pump is usually used for heating only and is a replacement for the conventional oil or gas furnace. These pumps work best when the ground temperature averages between 50 and 75 degrees and are suitable for heating water for bathroom and kitchen use.

Water-to-air heat pumps are most often used for both heating and air conditioning. The water acts as a heat sink that takes in the heat from the house. The air is then circulated around the home through the ductwork. In a heating capacity, a water-to-air geothermal heat pump works similarly to the water-to-water geothermal pump.

In order for you to take full advantage of the benefits these energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can offer, you first need to make sure your home is well insulated. By minimizing heat or cooling leakage through unsealed windows or doors, you can ensure your geothermal system can work to its maximum efficiency. The less it needs to run, the more money you save on utility bills.

If you're considering having a geothermal heat pump installed, make sure you consult an experienced heating and cooling company that can properly put in piping that reaches far through the ground. In some of these new heating and cooling systems, the piping needs to reach as far down as the ground water table. Contracting a company that has extensive experience in geothermal heat pump installation will ensure that your system will run properly and at its highest efficiency.

article by Budda Oliver

Geothermal Heat Pump-Differences in Geothermal Systems

2009-09-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

There are a wide range of geothermal system on the market today. There are also alot of different ways in which geothermal heat pumps are used to heat a project. Here are the most common ways geothermal systems are configured

1) The most common one in this country is using a geothermal heat pump with a buffer tank. Basically here with this system, the heat pump's sole duty is to keep the water in the buffer tank to a set temperature. Usually between 30 and 40 degrees. From this the underfloor heating has a "store" on which it can obtain its hot water for heating the house.

china made-buffer tank

The main advantages is that you have a controlled system. The buffer tank is protecting the heat pump by acting as a heat dump every time the heat pump comes on. From this , you are protecting the life span of the compressor i:e, the heat pump will only come on when the buffer tank is not at the designated temperature and because it has to heat a big volume of water, it will take the heat pump some time to do this.

The main disadvantages are

1) Fixed COP (Coefficient of Performance). Even on a mild day outside, the buffer tanks water temperature will still be at the same temperature. This is not required because on a mild day, there is less heat loss from the house, so your underfloor heating does not need the same water temperature in its pipes. Essentially you are paying for too much electricity.

2) The cost of putting in 2 cylinders is a disadvantage (Buffer tank & Domestic hot water cylinder).

3) Space required. You need a big utility room to insert all these items. It is pointless putting a heat pump in a garage off the house because you are going to loose some heat in transit. And because single phase heat pumps do not give big outputs, you want to get everything out of it that you possibly can.

By Jack Foley

Geothermal Heat Pump-Geothermal HVAC Unit

2009-09-17T08:26:00.000-07:00

Geothermal technology is rapidly replacing inefficient, outdated heating and cooling systems and improving the quality of temperature control while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. Government agencies have endorsed geothermal heat pump systems as the most energy efficient, environmentally clean, and cost effective systems for heating and cooling homes. They are the future of climate control and the solution to our energy crisis.

The first ground source heat pump was installed in 1948 as an experiment by Professor Carl Nielson. People quickly realized what a promising energy alternative it would be and began improving and producing the equipment. Modern heat pump systems last much longer, require less maintenance, and are four times more efficient than traditional air-source heat pumps. Today there are well over a million geothermal heat pumps installed worldwide and an additional 80,000 units are installed in the USA each year.

Geothermal heat pumps are exceptionally good for the environment and extremely safe. These systems do not have on-site emissions or flammable materials. By eliminating any combustion you do not have to worry about fumes, odors, or carbon monoxide in your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if just 100,000 homes converted to a geothermal heating and cooling system, carbon dioxide emissions could be reduced by 880 million pounds. Currently, atmospheric CO2 is 30% higher than it was 200 years ago and if not reduced can cause serious detrimental global impacts. Geothermal technology offers a wonderful solution to lowering these greenhouse gases.

As an incentive to install these environmentally-friendly units the government is offering a 30% tax credit based on the installed price of a geothermal heat pump unit that meets or exceeds Energy Star requirements. Although these systems are initially more expensive, this credit offers a tremendous discount and homeowners can expect a significant decrease in their energy bills. Customers often report they receive a full payback on their investment in three to five years.

When you consider the durability, comfort, cleanliness, and energy savings it is obvious why the government has endorsed them as the best systems for temperature control!

By Glenn Egg

Geothermal Heat Pump-Electrical and Dual-Fuel Heat Pumps

2009-09-17T07:34:00.000-07:00

There are three options for you to choose from when purchasing a heat pump: Geothermal, which uses the heat from a few feet below ground or water; Electrical Air Source, which utilizes the air from the outside, heats it and then pumps it into your home; and Dual Fuel, which utilizes both gas and electricity to heat your home.

Geothermal heat pumps are considered to be some of the most efficient units. This is because they use the natural heat of the earth which is located a few-feet below the surface of the earth. At this level, the ground temperatures are pretty steady and depending on where you are located range between forty five degrees and seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit. The geothermal heat pump takes advantage of this heat by exchanging heat with the earth through a ground heat exchanger. These systems are also able to cool your home and even provide you with hot water if they are equipped to do so. These systems last longer, are quieter and require little maintenance. They are more efficient because they use the ground heat.

outdoor unit

There are also dual-source heat pumps that combine both the geothermal heat sources as well as utilize electricity. These have higher efficiency ratings than your air source electrical heat pump units, but are not as efficient as the standard geothermal system. The main advantage of the dual units is that they are cheaper to install and work almost as well as the standard unit. However, on your standard unit it is estimated that the lifespan for the inside components is 25 years while the ground loops may last for fifty years.

There are two other types of heat pumps you can choose from as well, although they are not going to be as efficient as the geothermal unit. These units are still going to work well and save you money in the long run though. Another type of dual-fuel unit is one that uses both electric and gas. These units are good for those locations that experience the occasional drop below freezing and require a more powerful source of fuel. These units switch between electric and gas.

Air source electrical heat pumps use only electricity and come in several sizes. There are units large enough to heat your whole home and there are units small enough to heat just a room. The size of unit you choose will depend on what your heating requirements are. Typically, these units are used only in those locations that experience the occasional drop in temperature, but have a mild winter overall.

Either unit that you choose will assist you in saving on your electricity bills. If you want to go with the "greenest" unit possible, then you will probably want to consider using the geothermal unit. It is estimated that 40,000 of these units are being installed in the United States each year and that the savings in energy bills will pay for the unit in five to ten years and the unit itself could last you a lifetime.

By Chris Brown

Geothermal Heat Pump-The benefits

2009-09-17T07:25:00.000-07:00

Even in states without great geothermal resources, a geothermal heat pump can still provide space heating and air conditioning. Like a refrigerator or air conditioner, these systems use a heat pump to force the transfer of heat from the ground to the application. In theory, heat can be extracted from any source, no matter how cold, but a warmer source allows higher efficiency. A ground-source heat pump uses the shallow ground (typically at 10-12°C, 50-54°F) as a source of heat, thus taking advantage of its seasonally moderate temperatures. In contrast, an air-source heat pump draws heat from the colder outside air and thus requires more energy.

Geothermal heat pumps are similar to usual heat pumps, but use the ground instead of outside air to provide heating, air conditioning and, in most cases, hot water. Because they use the earth's natural heat, they are among the most efficient and comfortable heating and cooling technologies currently available.

The heat pump system uses solar energy stored in the earths crust. Energy is transferred to and from the earths surface by solar radiation, wind and rainfall. As a consequence of this solar energy, the earths temperature at depths greater than 10 meters remains constant, and is comparable to the annual average air temperature. Between the surface and a depth of 2.5 meters (maximum depth for a horizontal loop) the ground temperature will swing above and below the annual average air temperature , depending on the geographic location, soil type an moisture levels
Benefits
Ground Source Heat Pumps or geothermal Heat pumps offer great benefits:

• Simultaneously heat & cool different parts of the same building
• Very quiet-users do not know when the system is operating
• Can be set up in multiple zones, with each zone having an individual room control
• Greater freedoms in building design due to 50-80% less mechanical room space
• No outside equipment to hide, eliminating vandalism and roof top units
• Pipes have 50-year life expectancy
• all electric, which eliminates multiple utility services
• Expel boiler and chiller maintenance

By Narendra Kumar Singh

Geothermal Heat Pump-Open and closed systems

2009-09-17T02:46:00.001-07:00

There are two types of ground source heat pump systems: those with closed loops and those with open loops.Ground source heat pumps also known as geothermal heat pump.

In closed loop systems, liquid (usually with some sort of anti freezing/anti boiling agent mixed in) circulates through pipes buried beneath the earth's surface. During the winter, when the goal is warming a house, the fluid absorbs heat from the earth and carries back to the building. This very hot liquid can be effectively used to heat a home, and also quite obviously becomes a free-flowing source of usable hot water. During the summer, the system is designed to actually draw heat out of the building, and either use it to heat water for household use or deliver it back into the ground.

Open looped systems are quite similar, except that the water supply within the pipes is continually refreshed.

The bulk of geothermal heat pump (Ground source heat pumps) systems are the pipes that are buried far underground, so what is needed in your home is a unit likely no bigger than your current hot water heater and furnace. If you currently use oil, you may be able to get rid of or at least substantially downsize the size of your oil tank.

If you already have a forced air oil or gas-fed furnace system it may be easy for you to convert to what is called a "dual system". In this case you would choose which heating and cooling system would be primary at any particular time - most likely the geothermal system - and the other system will only work when needed, such as during an extremely cold spell in the winter

Ground source heat pumps are quiet and safe. There are no exposed parts, fans, storage tanks, etc. that can hurt kids or pets. Nothing is burned so there is no flame. The heating source is the earth so there is nothing to wear out. They are also quiet because the earth is doing the work of the motors in your current furnace.

The initial cost for ground source heat pumps is greater than that of a conventional oil or gas system. However, that initial cost is often made up in three to six years depending on the cost of fuel and the temperature in your area. The greatest benefit of these systems is that you no longer have to use oil or gas at all.

note:refer videos for more information on systems

Geothermal Heat Pump-How it works

2009-09-16T23:17:00.000-07:00

All energy comes from the sun.Sunshine has provided a lot of BTUs for a lot of years and Mother Earth has absorbed and stored that energy. A closed-loop geothermal system simply removes those BTUs from Mother Earth in the winter and gives them back in the summer.At depths of five feet or more, the earth temperature remains close to 57 degrees, as evidenced by a cave’s temperature.This temperature varies only slightly across the United States

There are two basic ways to install a geothermal unit. If digging a trench is difficult or if space is limited, geothermal contractors drill holes into the ground vertically to install small-diameter polyethylene pipe. If digging a horizontal trench is feasible, the pipe is installed in a horizontal trench.

A very small pump then circulates water from the earth to the geothermal unit and back to the ground in the closed-loop pipe. Actually, geothermal is not the best name for this unit. A better name is ground-coupled heat pump or water-to-air heat pump. A heat pump doesn’t create heat, it just moves heat from one location to another using a compressor. Example: A window air conditioner blows cool air inside and hot air outside. If you turn the air conditioner around, it will blow hot air inside and cool air outside.

As it circulates 57-degree water in the winter, the geothermal unit, using the compressor to remove heat from the water, provides 105-degree air into the house. As the water goes back to the ground loop, it immediately starts absorbing BTUs from the earth.

The water returns to the earth and immediately starts cooling off again. It’s all about heat transfer. Here’s another example -- a blacksmith heats a horseshoe to red hot. To cool it, he doesn’t wave the horseshoe into the air. Instead, he simply dips it in water. It cools off a lot faster and takes a lot less energy.

Geothermal gives good hot air in the winter and really cold air in the summer and uses less energy than any other central heating and cooling system. So don’t be a tightwad. Buy the best there is – you, your family, and your house deserve it.