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The Geothermal Solution - A Down-to-Earth SystemSo let's take a more detailed look at how a geothermal system is actually installed and operated. It all starts with a site survey and computer analysis of your home's needs. The amount of land you have is a key factor in determining which type of loop is correct for you. A vertical loop can be installed on a quarter acre or less, making it ideal for in-town systems. If you have more land, a horizontal loop or slinky loop are options. Your local BHP office will help you get started in making these decisions. But as you can see, geothermal systems are flexible, and can work in virtually any home. Horizontal Closed-Loop System: This system circulates water through a closed-loop coil of high density polyethylene or polybutylene pipe buried horizontally. Each installation must be designed to accommodate variables in climate, soil density, and moisture. In South Dakota, the pipe should be buried at a depth of about six feet. Approximately 500 feet of underground pipe are required for each ton of heating and cooling capacity. The horizontal system uses a fixed volume of water. Once the loop has been filled, no additional water is required. Another version of the closed loop system is called the slinky, which uses coiled pipe in a trench.
Vertical Closed-Loop System: This system also circulates a fixed volume of water through a closed loop of pipe buried vertically. A well-drilling rig makes the bore holes. Heat-sealed and pressure-tested tubing is inserted to a depth of 100 to 200 feet and grouted to maximize heat transfer. These systems must be designed to suit each particular location because they are affected by soil and climate conditions. Each ton of heating/cooling capacity requires about 300 feet of underground piping.
Well Water System: As its name suggests, this system utilizes two wells and underground water. Water from one well is pumped through the heat pump, then returned to a second well or discharged into a pond. This system requires three to five gallons of water per minute, per ton, to operate. Because water is returned to the earth, the underground water supply is not depleted by the heat pump's operation.
All loops are fully heat-fused and pressure-tested at every step, ensuring a reliable, efficient system. An environmentally-safe, food-grade antifreeze/water solution is circulated through the underground pipes, gathering stored solar energy. The main operating unit is completely within the home. There are no unsightly or noisy, external units. Since it requires no flue or chimney, it can be placed almost anywhere. It uses conventional ductwork, just like a furnace. Connections run to the underground loop field, and to the water heating. Heating and cooling are at your finger-tips, with digital electronic control and monitoring. A geothermal system can easily handle the most severe heat and cold the Black Hills can dish out. When your geothermal system is installed and operating, you have a fully integrated, single-source home energy system. There is no tank to fill and only one energy bill to pay. A single unit provides both heating and cooling. And, you have the peace of mind that comes from a totally combustion-free home. Plus, you'll be using the power of the future. The U.S. Department of Energy is supporting geothermal systems and encouraging their use. The Environmental Protection Agency has praised the technology as well. Geothermal energy is seen as a primary solution to energy conservation and reducing environmental pollution in the years to come. Go back to The Geothermal Solution page, the Customer Service and Rebate Programs page, or order an informative geothermal video. |
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