Environmentally responsible technology is becoming more popular and accessible in both new builds and building retrofits. With the overall investment decreasing and the long-term cost savings becoming more evident, more and more residential and commercial project designers are choosing to implement technologies that use renewable sources of energy. One such technology we'd like to highlight is Geothermal, which is sometimes referred to as "earth energy" or "geoexchange."
Geothermal systems leverage thermal energy naturally stored in earth layers. Rather than generating energy through combustion, this approach transfers energy between buildings and the ground, achieving superior efficiency compared to conventional methods.
Two primary configurations exist: open and closed loop systems. Both employ pipes positioned in vertical boreholes or horizontal trenches. Vertical installations suit space-constrained locations, while horizontal layouts work where sufficient land permits trenching.
“Environmentally responsible technology is becoming more popular and accessible in both new builds and building retrofits.
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Closed loop systems tend to be more common, and preferred, because they tend to be more reliable. They are generally made of polyethylene pipe which is buried in the ground or placed in a pond. In a closed loop system, the pipes are filled with a mixed solution of antifreeze and water. This solution is pumped through the heat pump.
Open loop systems operate where abundant groundwater permits continuous supply. Well water circulates through the heat pump before returning underground via a separate well.
Axiom Engineering Group
Axiom Engineering Group
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