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Since geothermal HVAC systems offer a cleaner and more energy-efficient method of heating and cooling homes, they’re rapidly gaining popularity among homeowners in Jeffersontown, KY. If you’ve decided to switch to this kind of system, expect nothing less than system efficiency and indoor comfort. Understanding the different types of geothermal HVAC systems makes it easier for you to choose the system that best suits your home.

Horizontal Heat Pump System

Also known as horizontal loops, horizontal heat pump systems use water- or refrigerant-filled pipes. They require a wide land area, and technicians bury the pipes up to 10 feet deep. They’re the most economical option for new additions and homes because they don’t need much maintenance.

However, you’ll need a substantial amount of ground space to accommodate the pipes. During installation, these pipes require trenches about 100 feet long. HVAC experts often install the pipes in a spiral manner to provide more room for heat transfer.

If you’re living in a rural or suburban home, this is probably the right choice for you because you have adequate ground space for installing the pipes. To make the installation process easier and more convenient, let your designer make plans for the system during the first construction stages.

Vertical Heat Pump System

Rather than using horizontal trenches, a vertical heat pump system uses holes that are hundreds of feet deep and a few inches wide. The width of the holes is too small to affect your home’s landscaping. During installation, your technician will connect vertical tubes to horizontal pipes that connect with the heat exchanger.

Although the heat exchange occurs the same way as in horizontal loops, the solution inside the pipes might need more pressure to allow it to move in an up-and-down direction. You should opt for vertical geothermal systems if you have a small ground area for the loop installation. This type of system also works effectively in commercial buildings that require long pipe systems.

Pond/Lake Heat Pump System

These geothermal systems are the most efficient for people residing near bodies of water. Believe it or not, lakes and ponds can efficiently help you heat and cool your home. A pond/lake heat pump system is just like other closed loops, except that your tech will install it at the bottom of the pond or lake.

As with most HVAC systems, geothermal lake loops depend on proper design, individual settings and the size of your water body. Here, you’ll need at least half an acre of land that’s eight feet deep, with water covering it.

This system isn’t that common since most people don’t have ponds or lakes on their property. However, if you do, you should consider it. HVAC technicians can help you determine whether your lake or pond is suitable for a geothermal system.

Open-Loop Heat Pump System

Geothermal HVAC systems with open loops harness the power of water from a nearby lake, pond or well. Unlike other systems, an open-loop system is a feasible option if you have an adequate supply of clean water. The water circulates freely from the source to the system.

To install this type of geothermal system, you need special filters that can keep dirt, algae and other contaminants from passing through it. This also keeps your water safe and clean to drink.

Closed-Loop Geothermal System

In most geothermal HVAC systems, the copper or plastic pipes have a closed-loop construction. This system circulates the solution through submerged pipes. During winter, you can reverse the flow of the solution to provide heat.

The professionals at One Choice Mechanical, LLC can help you harness the earth’s energy in your home. Our certified technicians will advise you on the right geothermal system for your comfort needs. Contact One Choice Mechanical, LLC today to learn more about geothermal HVAC systems in Jeffersontown, KY, and set up an appointment for us to install one for you.

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