Orlando Custom Home Builder

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal is becoming a popular energy source for homes. Below we’ve provided information on how it works.

The Basics

Heat pumps transfer heat from one place to another. They are comprised of two main units – an outdoor condenser and an indoor evaporator coil. A refrigerant carries the heat between the two units. The outside heat is compressed into a high-pressure liquid, and when it expands, it becomes a low temperature gas. This gas absorbs heat.

Geothermal pumps are similar to ordinary heat pumps. However, instead of relying on heat found in the outside air, they use the stable heat of the earth to supply air conditioning and heating. The Earth’s temperature remains constant. Depending on depth, the temperature is between 45 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Renewable Energy

Approximately, 70% of energy used in a geothermal heat pump is renewable. It is not only an efficient source of energy, but a very quiet system as well. The initial investment is more expensive than regular heat pumps. However, the EPA estimates energy bills to be 30 to 40 percent lower. The pumps are mechanically simple, so maintenance costs are low. However, because the pumps are well-below ground, they are protected from the weather, and therefore, should not incur damage.

Desuperheater

Systems can be equipped with a desuperheater which heats household water. In the summer, the water is heated at no cost, and in the winter, the heating costs are reduced by approximately 50%.

Contact Us

If you would like to know more about incorporating geothermal energy into your home, contact the Orlando custom home builders of BRC Homes today by dialing 407-612-6998.