Geothermal heating and cooling systems utilize the stability of ground temperatures using a system of pipes. This system of pipes are often referred to as a “loop.” Water circulates in the loops to interchange the heat between your home or business, the ground source heat pump, and the earth. The result is heating, cooling, and hot water with very high efficiency.

Geothermal energy has very little impact on the environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized ground source heat pumps as a renewable energy source. (See EPA info.)   These systems are some of the most energy-efficient, environmentally clean, and cost-effective space conditioning systems available. Geothermal heat pumps emit fewer emissions due to the fact they move the earth’s thermal energy from one place to another. This occurs via the circulation of a refrigerant fluid and is all done without burning a single fossil fuel! Some Northern Colorado residents can take advantage of the rebates offered through Poudre Valley REA for ground source heat pumps.

Geothermal systems require very little maintenance. With proper installation (this is critical!) the buried loop can last for generations and are guaranteed for 55 years. The unit’s fan, compressor, and pump are housed indoors and are variable speed. This means they are protected from the weather conditions, so they tend to last for many years; most often decades. Annual coil cleaning, periodic checks and filter changes are the only recommended maintenance.