The history of geothermal heating dates back 10,000 years ago when the Paleo-Indians used the hot springs for a variety of reasons including heat. Besides as a heat source, the spring was also used for cleansing and the minerals were used for healing purposes. Today, besides the spa affects of the springs, many more uses have been discovered for the hot water beneath the earths service.
What is Geothermal Heating
Geothermal heat is heat that comes from beneath the ground. The heat in the ground formed millions of years ago and also comes from the suns rays as it penetrates the earth. This heat source is abundant and has the capacity to provide energy for many, many years. This heat is transferred to buildings using a heat pump. During warmer month, the heat pump draws hot air from the building and transfers it back to the ground. Here is a brief history of geothermal heating.
The Early Years of Geothermal Heat Pumps
Lord Kelvin invented the heat pump in 1852. In 1912 Heinrich Zoelly patented the use of the heat pump to draw heat from the ground. Despite these early efforts, it wasn’t until 1940 that geothermal heat pumps were successfully used. In 1982, Boise Idaho was the first state to use geothermal heating as a district heating system. Other states soon followed.
Geothermal Heat Today
Beginning in the 3rd Century BC, China built the first bath or spa using heat from the ground. Today, China and Japan still use geothermal heating for bathing. Sweden and the United States use geothermal heat pumps. Other countries throughout the world use geothermal systems for district heating, spas, greenhouses, space heating, and a variety of industrial uses. Drilling 10,000 miles into the earth’s surface, engineers and scientists are searching for new ways to use the earths heat.
The Efficiency of Geothermal Systems
Ground source heat pumps (GSHP) are very popular. Their ability to transfer heat to a building is much more energy efficient than an air source heat pump. The reason is that the ground is already so much warmer. Even in cold areas, it is warm 20ft below the surface. People who take advantage of this heating system save an estimated 30-70% off heating costs and 20-50% off cooling costs. The other win-win about using geothermal heat is the environmental issues. Geo thermal heat helps conserve our nations energy and is itself a limitless energy source. If you have questions about a Geo thermal heating system call ADA Heating and Air your Central Kentucky Geo Thermal system experts,
