Geothermal Heat Pump explained in 60 Seconds.

Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs), sometimes called GeoExchange, earth-coupled, ground-source, or water-source heat pumps, have been in use since the late 1940s. They use the relatively constant temperature of the earth as the exchange medium instead of the outside air temperature.

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Although many parts of the country experience seasonal temperature extremes -- from scorching heat in the summer to sub-zero cold in the winter—a few feet below the earth's surface, the ground remains relatively constant. Depending on latitude, ground temperatures range from 45°F (7°C) to 75°F (21°C). Like a cave, this ground temperature is warmer than the air above it during the winter and cooler than the air in the summer. The GHP uses these more favorable temperatures to become highly efficient by exchanging heat with the earth through a ground heat exchanger.

As with any heat pump, geothermal and water-source heat pumps can heat, cool, and, if so equipped, supply the house with hot water. Relative to air-source heat pumps, they are quieter, last longer, need little maintenance, and do not depend on the temperature of the outside air. Some models of geothermal systems are available with two-speed compressors and variable fans for more comfort and energy savings.

A dual-source heat pump combines air and a geothermal heat pump. These appliances combine the best of both systems. Dual-source heat pumps have higher efficiency ratings than air-source units but are less efficient than geothermal ones. The main advantage of dual-source systems is that they cost much less to install than a single geothermal unit and work almost as well.

Approximately 50,000 geothermal heat pumps are installed in the United States each year. Even though the installation price of a geothermal system can be several times that of an air-source system of the same heating and cooling capacity, the additional costs may be returned in energy savings in 5 to 10 years, depending on the cost of energy and available incentives in your area. System life is estimated at up to 24 years for the inside components and 50+ years for the ground loop. For more information, visit the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association."

Learn about the Four Types of Geothermal Heat Pump Here: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/ge...