geothermal systems defined
Definition: a form of energy obtained from within the earth, originating in its core; also, energy produced by extracting the earth's internal heat; water or steam extracted from geothermal reservoirs can be used for geothermal heat pumps, water heating, or electricity generation.
A typical geothermal energy system has three main components:
The Earth Loop
A series of pipes, typically constructed of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) that circulate a fluid between a geothermal heat pump unit and the earth to transfer heat. The earth loop is also called a “heat exchanger" and can be installed in multiple configurations.
The Geothermal Heat Pump Unit
This unit is an electrical heat pump that exchanges heat between the fluid in the earth loop and the air that conditions the home or business.
The Air Delivery/Distribution System
These are the standard ducts and controls that deliver conditioned air throughout a home or building.
resources list
links
- Professional Organizations:
- — 25 x ’25
- — American Society of Heating, Refrigerating &
Air-Conditioning Engineers - — American Society of Mechanical Engineers
- — Geothermal Exchange Organization
- — International Ground Source Heat Pump
Association (IGSHPA) - — Mechanical Contractors Association of America
- — National Ground Water Association
- — National Home Builders Association
- — The American Institute of Architects
- — The Associated General Contractors of America
- — US Green Building Council
- Government Organizations:
- — Energy Star
- — US Department of Energy Geothermal Technologies
Program - Heat Pump Manufacturers:
- — Aaon
- — Carrier
- — ClimateMaster
- — FHP Bosch
- — Johnson Controls
- — Trane
- — WaterFurnace
- Professional Resources:
- — Dr. Steve Kavanaugh
- Partners:
- — LoopTech
- — Purge Rite
- Performance Contractors:
- — Mississippi Development Authority