GEOTHERMAL EARTH ENERGY
A geothermal heat pump (GHP) works on the same principle as an air-source heat pump. It can provide heating and cooling but has a lower-temperature output in heating mode than a combustion appliance. What’s unique about a GHP is that it is a single unit that uses refrigerant-filled underground piping loops, installed horizontally or vertically, to exchange heat with the earth. These systems work well in both warm and cold climates. A GHP is extremely efficient, able to move three to five times more energy than it consumes. Models are available for use with forced air or hydronic distribution systems. While the hydronic models don’t get water as hot as a conventional boiler (122 F, compared to 150 F or more) their low temperature output is a perfect match for radiant floor heat. GB
GEOTHERMAL HEAT PUMP -
VIRTUES
> Extremely energy efficient
> Good match for a radiant floor system
CAVEATS
> High installed cost
> Radiant loops can require a lot of land
HEATING TECHNOLOGY POLLUTANT COMPARISON
Outdoor Wood Boiler — 80 grams
Fireplace — 40 grams
Non-Certified Wood Stove (traditional) — 15 grams
Certified Wood Stove — 8.2 grams
Pellet Stove — 2.4 grams
Corn Stove — 1.5 grams
Oil Boiler — .02 grams
Gas/Propane Boiler — .001 grams
Newer, solid fuel-burning heating equipment produces far less pollution than unregulated wood fireplaces or outdoor wood boilers. Fossil fuels are still the cleanest burning alternative, but they depend on non-renewable resources. It’s clear that interest in cleaner ways to burn wood, corn, and other biomass will rise with market demand. Source Clean Air Revival and EPA
RADIANT SOLUTIONS: HIDDEN WARMTH
A radiant floor consists of loops of hydronic tubing embedded in the structure of the floor. Warm water is pumped through the tubing which, rather than heating the surrounding air, radiates low-level infrared heat to the people and objects in the room. The tubing can be placed inside a concrete slab, or on top of a wood floor frame. In the latter, the installer typically routs channels for the tubing into the plywood subfloor. For retrofits, an easier way is to use a product like the Quik Trak system. It consists of pre-routed plywood strips that are laid over the existing subfloor, then covered with the finish flooring.
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