Neo-Geothermal

Geothermal cooling for the home is a way to use a readily available renewable energy source. Using the unique properties of the earth for heating and cooling has finally come of age and is available to most home owners. Using geothermal energy for cooling is the reverse of using it for heating, and both can be done with the same system.

The earth maintains an upper crust level temperature that ranges from 50 to 70 degrees all year around. By sinking pipes down into the ground and back up again, air can be circulated with the assistance of a heat pump. This air will take on the temperature of the surrounding earth as it passes throughout the pipe system. Use the heat pump to take hot air out of the home and it will cool down. This cooled air is then returned back into the home, eliminating the need for an expensive air conditioner.

The only power needed is that to run the heat pump and fans to circulate the air in the home. This is less costly than other systems, and is eco-friendly. No dangerous substances are produced and only air is required to achieve the desired temperature changes. Geothermal cooling systems are a little more costly to set up, but over a few short years that expense can be recouped with savings.

Installing a geothermal cooling and heating system is not a do-it-yourself job; it must be professionally installed because of the technical knowledge and equipment required. Routine maintenance is required, but long term costs are significantly less than other options. The technology is new, but some systems have been operational for 25 to 50 years and may last much longer.

Some electrical companies will offer those with ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems a discount because their usage allows the electric companies a break at high demand times of year. With geothermal cooling relieving the demand during peak summer cooling periods, the electrical companies may not have to build new plants to generate power. Governments also offer incentives for installing this type of system in the home.