Geothermal heat pumps offer unmatched efficiency for home heating and cooling. The design of the system results in very little maintenance being required. As long as it is installed properly, a geothermal heat pump can last for a very long time, and still require only minor work.
Maintaining a Geothermal System
Geothermal systems consist of a system of pipes called an earth loop that is buried under the ground outside your home, a heat pump unit, and the ductwork. The system is built to be durable, and much of it is protected from the elements outdoors. Beyond cleaning the heat exchanger coils, changing the filters, and ensuring the system is working overall, there is very little that is required to keep these systems operating. Generally your technician will:
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Calculate the heat of extraction/rejection: This is the amount of heat the ground loop is either taking out of or putting into the ground.
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Calculate the sensible heating/cooling: This is the amount of cooling or heating your geothermal heat pump is contributing to your home’s air. Your contractor will measure the difference in the temperature of the air entering and leaving your heat pump. This should be close to the manufacturer’s specifications.
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Measure the voltage and current of the electricity the heat pump is using. These measurements should also fall within the range specified by the manufacturer.
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Inspect the coil, drain pan and trap, and clean these if they are dirty or have any clogs. Clogs will lead to overflows and can lead to the development and spread of mold spores.
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If your geothermal system uses a desuperheater for water heating, your technician will check that the desuperheater is operating correctly.
Although your technician will change the filters, this is something you can do. It is very simple and requires little time. The air filter will need to be changed regularly to ensure that air flows efficiently through the system.
Many people are not familiar with geothermal systems and their energy-saving, performance efficiency and heating and cooling benefits. At Bass Air Conditioning Company we have expertise in heat pump services and other efficient HVAC solutions. Call us at 910-778-1536 for more information about residential or commercial geothermal systems.
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