Answering the Most Commonly Asked Questions about Geothermal for Commercial
S&P Global reported that in 2021, high energy costs were the primary driver of inflation. With prices continuing to soar, many businesses are feeling the pinch even more. As if that weren’t enough, companies must also worry about a possible electrical grid failure. Geothermal heating can address both of these concerns, but is it right for your organization? To help you decide, here are a few answers to some of the most frequently asked questions concerning geothermal.
What is Geothermal Heating?
Geothermal is a type of heating that harnesses the power of hot water. Water below the earth’s surface remains at a near-constant temperature of around 55 degrees Fahrenheit year round. It’s far more efficient to heat that water only a few extra degrees than it is to warm another fuel such as oil or gas. Consequently, geothermal heating can save your business a great deal of money, while safeguarding you against future energy price increases.
With geothermal heating, water circulates through a ground loop system where it travels to an external heat pump. That heat pump is responsible for gathering the heat and delivering it to your building through a distribution system. In many cases, the distribution system is a series of ductwork much like that of a traditional, forced-air furnace. However, it can also be a set of pipes or even radiant floor heating.
What are the Applications for Commercial Clients?
A geothermal system does more than just provide heat in winter and cooling in summer. It can also supply hot water very affordably, making it ideal for restaurants, laundry facilities, hair salons, etc. Likewise, the same energy that heats your structure can be used to warm up an indoor swimming pool or hot tub. This makes it ideal for hotels, fitness centers, and spas. What’s more, geothermal units provide these benefits more cost effectively, since there are fewer parts that require electricity in order to operate.
What Type of Maintenance Does a Geothermal System Require?
Much of a geothermal system is contained underground and will therefore require very little maintenance over its lifetime. Your unit will only require regular filter changes and semi-annual heat pump cleaning, which are things you are probably doing anyway. Of course, you can always contact South Jersey Heating and Cooling for seasonal maintenance to keep your new geothermal unit operating at peak efficiency.
Will I Have to Tear up my Parking Lot?
There are two types of geothermal systems: open and closed loop. Open-loop geothermal systems take water from a well, lake, pond, or river and then circulate it throughout. A closed-loop system, on the other hand, has liquid added at the time of installation. That fluid continuously circulates throughout, so there is no need to extract water from elsewhere.
Since they do not require an outside water source, closed loop systems generally take up less space than open-loop ones. Accordingly, they are best suited for most commercial operations, particularly those without a nearby lake or pond.
Will Installation Disrupt my Business?
Most of the installation process takes place outdoors. Some indoor work is required, but no more than what you would expect with a traditional HVAC installation. As such, you may notice little or no disruption to your daily activities.
How Much Does Installation Cost?
That will depend on a number of factors including the size and layout of your building. For a more precise estimate, please contact South Jersey Heating and Cooling. After a thorough consultation, we can better assess your needs and provide you with a more accurate cost analysis. Please call us today to set up your appointment.
