How A GeoExchange System Works

STEP 1

A water/antifreeze solution is pumped through the pipes in the ground, where the earth stays a constant 54 degrees year-round. When the solution returns to the heat pump, it has either been heated, or cooled to match the earth's ambient temperature.

STEP 2

When heating, the refrigerant solution passes through an evaporator coil inside the heat pump. When the refrigerant leaves the coil as a gas and flows into a compressor, which puts it under high-pressure and in turn, heats it up.

STEP 3

The hot gas from the compressor is pumped to a series of pipes called a condenser, where it expands and gives off heat as a by-product, then condenses back into a cooler liquid.

STEP 4

Return duct work fans force the home’s cool air over the condenser. The air absorbs the heat and is then blown through ducting into your home. The solution then returns to the ground loop and begins the process again.

COOLING, WITH NO EXTRA EQUIPMENT

When cooling, the same system is used, only in reverse: Cooled solution from the ground is passed through the condenser/evaporator coil. As warm air from throughout the home passes over it, the cold liquid refrigerant boils, resulting in a warm gas, which goes to the compressor, condenses in the evaporator/condenser coil, then returns to the earth as a warm solution for cooling. The air from your home has been cooled, and flows out through the vents.