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Thoughts On Ground Source Heat Pumps
I am new to your site. I saw it in the
magazine Workbench. I would like you input about ground source heat
pumps.
I am about ready to replace my 23 year old furnace and central air unit. I
have heard about it , but can't get very much good info. I have plenty of
room for the in-ground part (2 acres).
Thank you in advance for you input.
Sincerely,
Richard M.
From
an engineer's or scientist's perspective, a ground source (a.k.a.
geothermal) heat pump system is THE BEST concept, hands down. At least
in theory. Even here in frosty Northern Michigan the groundwater rarely
gets below 50 degrees F in the depths of winter. And since heat pumps
can actually deliver considerably more heat than the electricity fed in,
you get some FREE HEAT.
But the reality is far from the theoretical ideal. These systems are
rare, and their scarcity may be their biggest downfall. I know of one
family who has such a system, and it has been plagued with problems. One
big problem has been finding service people who understand the system. I
guess the original installer had gone out of business and nobody knows
which components do what. So if you can locate an installer who has been
in business for a long time (like, 10 years or more) maybe they will be
around a lot longer. And selling your house someday could be a little
tricky if the prospective buyers balk at an unconventional system.
But then, you could be a pioneer and really do some good by purchasing
such a system. There are more risks with uncommon systems.
But then... it shouldn't be such a big deal. After all, it's just a
refrigeration system that runs in reverse as well as forward. And it
chills/warms water that loops through pipes in the earth, instead of
dumping /reclaiming heat in the outdoor air.
I guess I would focus on the reliability, warranty and service costs of
the system, and the longevity of the installer. How many systems have
they installed? Are there previous customers they can give as references
who can describe their experiences? Ask lots of questions.
There is a benefit to using tried-and-true systems (easier and cheaper
maintenance), but in this case these systems probably use more energy.
But, perhaps you could upgrade the insulation (and maybe windows and
doors) in your house and use a conventional system, and come out ahead
that way.
Bruce W. Maki, Editor.
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