Geothermal Heat Pump (Ground Source)
A heat pump that exchanges heat with the earth via underground loops filled with circulating fluid. The ground maintains a relatively constant temperature (50-60°F) year-round.
Why It Matters
Geothermal systems achieve COP of 4-5 (the highest of any HVAC technology) because they exchange heat with 55°F ground instead of variable outdoor air. Upfront costs are higher but operating costs are the lowest.
Related Topics
Related Terms
Heat Pump
An efficient HVAC system that transfers heat rather than generating it, providing both heating and cooling. Air-source heat pumps are most common; ground-source (geothermal) are most efficient.
COP (Coefficient of Performance)
The ratio of heating or cooling output to electrical energy input for a heat pump. A COP of 3.0 means the system produces 3 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed.