What Homeowners Need to Know About Geothermal Heat Pumps

If you’re looking to keep your energy costs down in your household this year, you may want to think about installing a heat pump . Obtaining a home energy audit from an HVAC contractor in Seattle can help you determine whether this is a worthwhile investment for you. Geothermal heat pumps are a popular option for cold climates. If you’re interested in learning how these devices work, keep reading.

What are geothermal heat pumps?

A heat pump is a heating system that works by transferring heat out of one space and into another—for example, from the air outside your home to the air inside. Geothermal heat pumps work by transferring heat to or from an area a few feet under the ground, which stays at a steady temperature throughout the year. As with other heat pumps, these systems can be used to either heat or cool the air inside your home, and they can also be used to heat water.

What are the different types of geothermal heat pumps?

There are two distinct types of geothermal heat pumps used in homes: Closed loop and open loop systems. Open loop systems rely on groundwater to exchange heat, while closed loop systems can use either vertical or horizontal installations or rely on a nearby lake or pond for heat exchanges. When you talk to a contractor about installing your heat pump, he or she will inspect your property and advise you which option is best suited to your needs.

What are the advantages of geothermal heat pumps?

Since the temperature of the ground doesn’t change from one season to the next, geothermal heat pumps are much more efficient than heat pumps that rely on air. They are highly eco-friendly, since they don’t produce any emissions or have any noticeable impact on the environment. Geothermal heat pumps also require little maintenance once they’ve been installed, and they are quiet and unobtrusive.