Ground Source Heat Pump

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When looking for the most economical heating system available, look at the ground source heat pump (GSHP). It does not produce heat, it transfers it. A GSHP is a central heating/cooling system that uses ductwork to distribute an even temperature throughout the home. For every dollar spent on electricity, there are between $3 to $4 worth of heat delivered to the home.

Plastic pipe, specially made for the GSHP, is buried vertically or horizontally. A water solution is circulated through the pipes. In winter the water solution absorbs heat from the ground and transfers it to the GSHP unit inside the home. The GSHP unit then takes the heat from the water and, by using a compressor to raise the temperature, delivers 100-110 degree air into the duct system.

In the summer, the GSHP serves as the air conditioner. The above process is reversed.

Most homeowners install the GSHP with a desuperheater. The desuperheater uses the excess heat from the refrigeration process, in both the heating and cooling season, to provide additional hot water.

The GSHP is a simple machine and should provide reliable service for many years. The higher installation cost is due to burying the pipe outside the home. A typical system has a payback period of five to seven years and a life expectancy of 20-25 years.

 

 

GSHP Video Tutorial

GSHP Benefits from RCEC

  • RCEC will provide a discounted rate for qualifying GSHP installations. A sub meter must be installed to allow the discounted rate.
  • Sub meter for heat pump has to be in a location that allows RCEC access to the meter. It cannot be in the house.
  • Sub meter can only have heat pump wire to it. NO AUXILLARY HEAT

Upsides to GSHP Installation

  • More Living Space: The condensing unit can be installed even in a tight space allowing more living space for you.
  • Low Operating Costs: Reduce heating and cooling costs and, with the proper equipment, supplement the cost of hot water.
  • Low Noise: GSHP systems are among the quietest home comfort systems ever designed.
  • Reduced Emissions: GSHPs move heat instead of creating heat by combustion, so they do not pollute the air.
  • Predictability: A GSHP is a buffer against the rising cost of fossil fuels, and will help keep your energy expenses stable.
  • Low Maintenance Costs: GSHPs have fewer mechanical components to service.
  • Longevity: The ground heat exchanger and its piping is warranted for 25-50 years.

Rebate Opportunities

Please notify RCEC before installing a new GSHP at your location to ensure that your new system meets all the required specifications for our rebate policy.

  • Heat loss calculations based on Manual-J guidelines must be performed and submitted with the rebate application.
  • Minimum Delta-T Factor of 80 degrees, calculated without considering any resistance heat. (Minimum temperature difference between inside and outside temperature of 80 degrees must be used in the above heat loss calculation).
  • Loop configuration must be based on an accepted loop sizing method, similar to the IGSHPA CLGS Design Program.
  • Resistance strip-heat, either auxiliary or emergency, must be placed on a separate breaker or fuse system, and may be manually switched in the event it is required.
  • A blower door test is recommended to provide a more accurate infiltration value.