![]() A blower in the indoor unit disperses the heat. Hot refrigerant then is circulated to the indoor unit where it enters a coil where the heat is released. When heating, refrigerant in the outdoor unit collects heat from outside air. How mini split systems work: Systems are comprised of an outdoor unit that serves up to 8 indoor units. They are called “mini split” because both outdoor and indoor units are smaller. This is another HVAC niche that has experienced double-digit annual growth recently, taking market share from the standard split systems reviewed next. This means that they draw heat from the air and dump heat into the air, as opposed to a geothermal system. Mini split, aka ductless, heat pumps are an air-source system. Note: In this guide, we use EER (Energy Efficiency Rating) rather than SEER ( Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating). In moderate climates without high demand for either heating or cooling, geothermal is not a cost-effective choice. The second-best climates are cold climates. Geothermal heat pumps pay for themselves most quickly through lower energy bills in very warm, humid climates. Closed loop systems are less efficient than open loop systems, but cost less too. The high costs for equipment and repair are the drawbacks. Pros and cons: Tremendous efficiency is the primary benefit of geothermal heat pump systems. These ratings are from the Energy Star Most Efficient Heat Pump list. Most efficient: Today’s most efficient geothermal heat pumps have efficiency ratings of more than 35 EER for closed-loop systems and more than 45 EER for open-loop systems. These temperature differences make geothermal much more efficient. In summer, the cool earth or water receives heat much more readily than hot summer air. Secondly, because temperatures remain much higher below the earth’s surface than in winter-time air, it is far easier to collect heat. It doesn’t burn fossil fuel or use electric resistance heat like a space heater. Why geothermal is so efficient: Like all heat pumps, a ground source system collects heat that is already present. Costs, brands and links to individual heat pump brand guides are included. A fuller explanation is available in our Geothermal Heat Pump Buyer’s Guide. This exchange of heat takes place using a heat pump, water/glycol mix and loop system. In summer, it dumps heat from your home into the ground by reversing the process. The refrigerant in the heat pump condenses that heat, providing enough to heat homes in the coldest climates. The system collects heat from the sun that is stored in earth or water that maintains a fairly constant temperature all year. ![]() How geothermal heat pumps work: A geothermal system is also called a ground source heat pump. And geothermal heat pump cost has dropped and stabilized, making them a better value for consumers. The demand for geothermal systems grows by double digits in most years. Geothermal heat pumps make use of the renewable heat within the earth to produce effective, efficient heating.
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