how geothermal works

To understand how geothermal works, we need to realise that the temperature of the ground below the frost line remains relatively constant year-round.

1)  This natural heat is collected through a series of pipes

2) which are installed below ground and filled with a mixture of water and environmentally friendly antifreeze. The length of the pipe is determined by the building’s heat loss. The fluid is circulated through the loop, where it exchanges heat with the ground – in the same way your hand will exchange heat with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of water. The warmed fluid continues to circulate to a smart machine called a heat pump

3) The heat pump increases the heat from the fluid in the loop by compressing it, and then transfers it across a heat exchanger and into the air stream, where a blower distributes heated air through the ductwork

4) In the summer, the system is run in reverse to provide air conditioning. Instead of putting heat into the air stream, the heat pump draws it out and transfers it into the ground loop. The warmer fluid exchanges its heat with the cooler earth and there it remains until needed again in the cold seasons.

5) When connected to the hot water tank, an optional hot water assist, called a desuperheater, can provide approximately 50% of a typical home’s hot water needs..