Types of geothermal heat pump systems

Geothermal heat pump systems are ideal for use in most homes due to their extreme efficiency and use of natural energy to heat and cool living spaces. When choosing a geothermal heat pump for your home, there are two different options which may be suitable for your application. Residential geothermal heat pump systems can be either water-to-water or water-to air heat pumps.

Water-to-water geothermal heat pump systems

A water-to-water geothermal heat pump system is used for radiant heating and cooling; domestic hot water; pool conditioning; ice and snow melt. They can be used in place of gas or oil furnaces which may be used in the home for heating water and indoor living spaces. These heat pumps work at their highest efficiency when the temperature variance between the ground and the heat sink inside the home is minimal.

A water-to-water geothermal heat pump can also be used to heat your home’s hot water. Many new geothermal heat pumps are equipped with desuperheaters, which allows excess heat from the compressor to be transferred to the domestic water heater. Using a geothermal heat pump is an effective, efficient way to provide for all your home’s heating needs.

Water-to-air geothermal heat pump systems

A water-to-air geothermal heat pump system is used for forced air heating and cooling a home and domestic hot water. These heat pumps use water as a heat sink, or the location where heat is rejected from inside the house. The air is then distributed in the home through the duct system. They function in the same manner as the water-to-water heat pumps.

To make your home’s geothermal heat pump system more efficient, you can take a few simple steps. Start by cutting your home’s heating and cooling requirements. This can be done through insulation as well as using windows for solar heat gain during colder months.

If you’re considering a geothermal heat pump system for your home, consult the professionals at Smith Sustainable Design. We can help you by designing an appropriate system to meet your home’s requirements.