We're planning to install a geothermal heating and cooling unit in our new energy-efficient home. Geothermal technology uses the relatively constant temperature of the earth to heat and cool your home or office using less energy than conventional systems. According to the California Energy Commission, studies show that approximately 70 percent of the energy used in a geothermal heat pump system is renewable. Geothermal heating and cooling technology is efficient, comfortable, and quiet. The units are generally more costly to install initially than traditional HVAC units, but can produce markedly lower energy bills - 30 percent to 40 percent lower, according to estimates from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, who now includes geothermal heat pumps in the types of products rated in the EnergyStar® program.
Because they are mechanically simple and outside parts of the system are below ground and protected from the weather, maintenance costs are often lower as well. The underground piping used in the system is often guaranteed to last 25 to 50 years and is virtually worry-free. The components inside the house are small and easily accessible for maintenance. Warm and cool air is distributed through ductwork, just as in a regular forced-air system.
Take a look at this video from Water Furnace which does a fabulous job of explaining how a geothermal heat pump system works for both heating and cooling. Of course Water Furnace is just one of a number of very functional units.
If you are interested in learning more about geothermal technology, here are some links to get you started.
http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/home/heating_cooling/geothermal.html
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