How does geothermal work?
Check out this article from What's Up Magazine - photos and technical information supplied by Mark & Earth River Geothermal
Geothermal technology uses the ground or underground water (ground water) as a heat exchanger. Conventional heat pumps use the outdoor air. The ground temperature in Maryland is a stable 57 degrees and provides a superb renewable energy source for both heating and cooling.
A geothermal system uses a heat pump, like a conventional air source heat pump, but instead of trying to heat with cold outside air in the winter, and cool with hot outside air in the summer, a geothermal heat pump is coupled to 57-degree earth with a liquid-filled loop. Not only is the heat exchange temperature superior, but the liquid in the loop has excellent thermal transfer properties compared to air, which is a thermal insulator. This allows the geothermal heat pump to operate much more efficiently and to generate hot air and hot water regardless of the outdoor air temperature.
Comfort and quiet
Geothermal systems provide great comfort. Precise distribution of comfortable air all year long eliminates hot spots and cold spots. During heating, you'll enjoy warm air without the hot blasts associated with furnaces. Compared to an air-source heat pump, the air coming into your home via a geothermal heatpump is much warmer, and there are no more noisy outdoor fans running day and night.
Geothermal heat pumps also generate free hot water for domestic use, further reducing utility costs.
Geothermal heat pumps also make radiant floor heating cost effective to operate - for the first time - since boilers are no longer required. (Please note that the water-to-water geothermal heat pumps used for radiant floor heating are very efficient, but have not yet been placed on the list of equipment eligible for the 30 percent Federal tax credit.)
Geothermal systems truly are systems for the 21st Century. It is an especially rewarding experience to improve comfort and aesthetics, reduce your environmental footprint, and save money on utility bills at the same time. Every one of our customers has been pleased with their switch to geothermal.
Using the ground temperature allows you to heat and cool with nature, not against it.
Contact us at : earthriver@verizon.net or phone (410)263-8538