About Geothermal
How Does It Work?
Geothermal systems draw energy from the relatively moderate and consistent temperatures found just below the Earth’s surface. Nearly 47% of the Sun’s energy that reaches the Earth is absorbed into the ground. This allows the Earth to maintain warmer ground temperatures than the air temperature in the winter and cooler ground temperatures in the summer, offering a perfect environment from which to draw energy. Using advanced technology, WaterFurnace systems tap into that stored energy to provide efficient, reliable heating and cooling comfort all year round. The energy is collected through an earth loop – an underground piping system that is heat-fused for maximum integrity. Fluid is circulated throughout the loop, which transfers heat to or from the ground.
Although the heat transfer process may seem complicated, the WaterFurnace system is actually similar to your refrigerator. It is simply a process of moving heat energy from one point to another using heat exchangers for water, air and refrigerant. During heating, the WaterFurnace unit extracts heat from the earth loop (or well water) and, using a refrigeration process, the heat is intensified and transferred to the air, which is then delivered into the home. During cooling, the process is reversed. Hot air is removed from the home by the cool refrigerant, then transferred to the ground. Although this refrigeration technique has been around for decades, the WaterFurnace difference is using the unlimited and renewable temperatures of the Earth.
Consider the benefits you could enjoy…
- Maximum comfort for your family
- Improved indoor air quality
- Uses the earth’s free, renewable energy
- Reduces dependence on foreign oil products
- “Whisper quiet” operation
- No noisy outdoor equipment
- Safe operation with no combustion, flames or fumes
- Low maintenence equipment with longer warranties
- Lower electric bills
- No environmentally harmful emissions
- Uses non-ozone depleting R410A refrigerant
- Increased home value
- 30% federal tax credits
Helpful Links For More Information
www.WaterFurnace.com - WaterFurnace International, Inc.
www.geoexchange.com – Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium
www.igshpa.okstate.edu – International Ground Source Heat Pump Association
Geothermal WaterFurnace References
"We have been in many lake homes where the floor is cold...This is not the situation with our house; the lower level is just as warm and comfortable as the rest of the house."
- Lowell & Kathy Skelton (Read Full Reference)
"My wife and I have built several homes and have lived in several others. None is as comfortable or energy efficient as this home..."
- Barry G. Slaughter, CPA, CBM (Read Full Reference)
"The heat is so even throughout the house...and quiet, the only way I know it is running is to check the thermostat!"
- Jim & Anna Turner (Read Full Reference)
Click Here to Read All References
Geothermal Projects
Geothermal Loop Types
Horizontal Loop Used where adequate land is available, horizontal loops involve one or more trenches that are dug using a backhoe or chain trencher. Polyethylene pipes are inserted and the trenches are backfilled. A typical home requires 1/4 to 3/4 of an acre for the trenches. |
Pond Loop If an adequately sized body of water is close to the home, a pond loop can be installed. A series of closed loops can be coiled and sunk to the bottom of a nearby pond. A 1/2 acre, 8-foot-deep pond is usually sufficient for the average home. |
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Open Loop An open loop is used where there is an abundant supply of well water. the well must have enough capacity to provide adequate flow for both domestic use and the WaterFurnace unit. |
