How Geothermal Works

No matter what climate you live in, the temperature throughout the year varies. For some climates that means blazing summers that cool to frigid winters. What many people don’t realize is that the temperature below ground (regardless of climate or season) stays fairly consistent all year.

The ground absorbs 47% of the sun’s energy as it hits the Earth’s surface – this is how the ground is able to hold a consistent temperature. Whether you’re in chilly Seattle or balmy Miami, the temperature just below the frost line stays relatively consistent. GeoStar geothermal systems tap into this free energy with an earth loop, which is where it all begins.

Efficiency

It’s easy to say something is efficient, but it’s something else entirely to be able to prove it. Use the chart below to compare EER and SEER to see a physical representation of how much more efficient GeoStar systems really are.

The most important thing to remember when thinking about either efficiency or the environment is that geothermal systems don’t create energy – they move the energy that is already there. This means that the energy that is already residing in your back yard can be harnessed and transformed into heat for your home. In the summer, the reverse happens – the heat is pulled from your home and placed back into the ground. A GeoStar unit is up to 480% efficient at heating – which is more than four times more efficient than any conventional furnace.

Pond Loops

Very economical to install when a large body of water is available for use by the geothermal heating and cooling system. Coils of pipe are simply placed on the bottom of the pond or lake to capture the geothermal energy.

Vertical Loops

The ideal choice for a geothermal heat pump when available land surface is limited. Well drilling equipment is used to bore small-diameter holes from 100 to 400 feet deep.

Horizontal Loops

Often used when adequate land surface is available. Depending on geothermal system needs and space available, pipes are placed in trenches that range in length from 100 to 400 feet.

Open Loops Systems

In ideal conditions, an open-loop application can be the most economical type of geothermal system. These use groundwater from a well as a direct energy source.