Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP) systems offer an efficient way to regulate temperature within a building by harnessing the earth's stable underground temperature. By leveraging these principles, GHP systems provide an effective and energy-efficient solution for heating and cooling buildings.
Here’s how they function.
Image: Arch Daily
Distributed System Design
GHP systems operate as a distributed system rather than a central one, enabling more efficient energy movement. Thermal energy is transported throughout the building via a water loop rather than air, significantly improving energy efficiency. Each space (or zone) is equipped with a heat pump that either extracts or rejects heat from the loop, maintaining the desired temperature.
Comparison to Traditional Systems
Traditional systems circulate large volumes of air, relying on a central system to supply cooled or heated air to all spaces.GHP systems often save on fan energy by utilizing smaller fans with short ducts operating at low pressure (typically 0.3 W/cfm) compared to extensive duct systems that operate at higher pressure (around 1.0 W/cfm).
Independent Zone Control
In a variable air volume (VAV) system, each room can be heated or cooled independently. Dampers adjust the flow of cold air based on room temperature, with heating coils reheating air if necessary. GHP systems simplify this process as heat pumps in each zone condition the air directly, with a fluid loop connected to the ground heat exchanger providing temperature regulation.
Ventilation and Energy Efficiency
Fresh air is introduced through a dedicated outdoor air system that preconditions outdoor air using energy recovered from exhausted air. This separate system ensures proper fresh air delivery to each space while minimizing fan energy since air can be delivered at lower pressure without passing through dampers or coils.
Addressing Large Spaces
In larger areas where a single heat pump lacks capacity, multiple heat pumps can meet needs. Water-to-water heat pumps are employed in larger spaces, conditioning water rather than air, and can be grouped together for increased capacity.
Read more:
Geothermal Heat Pumps: Closed-Loop Surface Water Ground Heat Exchangers & Hybrid Systems
How Do Geothermal Systems Operate?
Benefits of Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP) Energy & Technology
Types of Geothermal Heat Pump Systems
We appreciate the opportunity to work with you.
Carbon Solutions Group Contact Information
Phone: 888-316-GREC
Email: GREC@carbonsolutionsgroup.com
Comments
0 comments
Please sign in to leave a comment.