HOW
A GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM WORKS
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Throughout the year, outdoor temperatures fluctuate with the
changing seasons. However, about four to six feet below the Earth's
surface, Wisconsin temperatures remain relatively moderate and
consistent all year (about 50 degrees F, in WI). This is because the
Earth absorbs 47% of all heat and energy from the sun that reaches
the surface. A geothermal system circulates a water-based fluid
through a buried loop system to take advantage of these consistent
temperatures.
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GEOTHERMAL HEAT CYCLE
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During
the heating process, fluid in the loop absorbs heat from the earth.
It is transferred to the unit located in the home. The geothermal
system distributes the warm, comfortable air by either a
conventional duct system or radiant heat system.
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GEOTHERMAL COOLING CYCLE
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For cooling, the
geothermal system process is simply reversed. The warmer
temperatures in your home are removed and transferred to the loop
fluid. The heat in the fluid is deposited into the ground and the
fluid is cooled.
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HOW A GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM COMPARES
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Based on 3,500 square
foot home. 76,600 BTU Heat Loss. 40,000 BTU Heat Gain. 4 Persons
in household for domestic hot water.
Fuel costs used are $0.042/kwh heating. $.082/kwh cooling.
$1.10/therm for natural gas, $1.70/gallon for LP gas, and
16 SEER efficiency for air conditioner.
Actual savings may vary. Dirks Heating and Cooling can provide you
with a free and detailed analysis.
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Annual Heating, Cooling, and
Hot Water Costs for Geothermal System = $843.00
Annual Heating, Cooling, and Hot Water costs for
Natural Gas = $2,355.00
Annual Heating, Cooling, and Hot Water costs for
LP Gas = $3,787.00 |
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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF GEOTHERMAL
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Geothermal is recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
as the most environmentally safe, cost-effective heating and cooling
system on the market. The installation of one geothermal system is
the environmental equivalent to removing two cars from the street. |
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GEOTHERMAL ADVANTAGES
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Energy Savings:
Geothermal systems use a small amount of electricity to transfer heat to
and from the ground to your home. In fact, it can produce three to four
units of energy for every unit of electricity used to power the system.
Even the best conventional system delivers less than one unit of energy
for each unit it consumes. Homeowners typically experience an annual
savings of 50 to 80% when compared to ordinary systems.
Quiet Operation:
Geothermal systems use the same principles that operate a refrigerator
or freezer, and the units are just as quiet. There is no unsightly
outdoor unit to disturb you or your neighbors.
Comfort:
Geothermal systems heat and cool homes evenly, eliminating the hot and
cold blasts of air found with conventional systems. Geothermal systems
also dehumidify the air during the hot summer months.
Clean and Safe:
Geothermal units do not use fossil fuels such as propane and natural
gas. Threats caused by combustion are eliminated. No worries about
flames, fumes, odors, or carbon monoxide.
System Lifespan:
Ordinary systems often require expensive regular maintenance for each
unit – the furnace, the air conditioner, and the water heater. When
properly installed, a geothermal system requires little or no
maintenance beyond periodic checks and filter changes. Geothermal
systems typically last more than 20 years if properly maintained.
Positive Cash Flow:
Geothermal systems will produce significantly cheaper utility bills and
annual maintenance costs. The initial cost of a geothermal system can be
tied into your mortgage or other form of low interest financing option.
The savings on your utilities easily cover the increase in your loan
payment giving you the extra cash flow. A system will usually pay for
itself within a two to five year time span. |
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TYPES OF EARTH LOOPS
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Vertical Loop:
Typical loop installation where land area is limited. The loop
installer drills vertical holes a depth of about 125 to 250 feet.
U-shaped loops pf pipe are placed into the holes. The bores are then
properly backfilled.
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Horizontal Loop:
Installation option when adequate land is available. Horizontal
loops are usually cheaper to install when compared to vertical
loops. The loop installer uses a trencher or backhoe to dig one or
more trenches. Each trench is at least 8 feet deep and lengths
range from 100 to 300 feet, depending on the loop design and
application.
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Pond Loop:
When a nearby body of water is available, pipe coils can be placed
on the bottom to transfer heat to and from the water. A ½-acre, 8
ft. deep pond is usually sufficient for the average home. This
option is usually less expensive to install than both earth loop
options.
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