4 FAQ About Geothermal Heating
A geothermal heat pump warms your home using heat from the ground. This type of setup is not only convenient and cost-effective, but it's also an eco-friendly alternative to traditional air handling equipment. An HVAC contractor can install the system for you, but it helps to understand the basics of how it works and what benefits it offers. Here's what you should know about geothermal heating.
An Introductory Guide to Geothermal Heat Pumps
How do they work?
A geothermal heating system has two main parts: the pump, which is located inside the home, and the underground pipes, or loops, that are buried outdoors. Since ground temperatures below the frost line remain consistent throughout the year, the fluid in the loops absorbs heat from the earth and transfers it indoors. The indoor unit compresses the heat into a higher temperature before delivering it through the ductwork. In the spring and summer, this process is reversed. The system draws in the home's heated air, carries it through the loops, and distributes it into the ground.
Why should I get one?
This system is more efficient than a traditional HVAC setup since it doesn't need to create heat and only transfers it. It uses free, renewable solar energy rather than fossil fuels, making it the greenest option out of all the modern air handling equipment available today. As a result, it will likely save you money on your heating and cooling bills.
Geothermal heat pumps also come in horizontal or vertical loop models. This means the system can be installed on virtually any property, even if there's limited space.
Does it require much maintenance?
You will need to change the air filter every few months, and you should schedule an annual inspection with an HVAC contractor to confirm the equipment is functioning optimally. Most geothermal heat pumps last between 20 and 25 years with proper maintenance.
What does the installation process involve?
The provider will design the system's layout and acquire any necessary permits. When installing a horizontal model, the excavation team will dig trenches that are about 4 to 8 feet deep to lay the pipes. A vertical setup requires holes up to 400 feet deep. If necessary, they will also modify existing ductwork or install new channels. They finish the project by connecting the electrical components and setting up the thermostat, zoning control programs, and other features.
The entire process can take anywhere from six to eight weeks, and during that time, you can expect some disruption to your property. The project won't impact your land as much if the system can be installed under non-landscaped areas.
Enjoy the benefits of a geothermal heat pump when you work with the HVAC contractors at Vashon Heating & Cooling in Washington state. They have been serving residential and commercial customers throughout King County since 1996. They offer installation, repair, and maintenance services for heat pumps, furnaces, and air conditioning systems. Learn more online, or call
(206) 463-1777 to request an estimate.