Geothermal systems
have garnered popularity throughout Canada and the USA. The currently available
ground source heat pumps are able to deliver outstanding COP (coefficient of
performance) of 5 times or more. It means your return on investment is even faster
than ever.
However, geothermal is
one of the most popular green energy options available in both northern and
southern climates. They are able to deliver both heating and cooling benefits
while providing the greater level of flexibility to homeowners.
Geothermal systems are
well-known for their efficiency, reliability, safety, flexibility, and
convenience, renewable and financial advantages. But getting the right size for
your geothermal heat pump is important. However, your local contractor will
help you with sizing your project.
If you’ve a new construction:
Are you building a new
house? If yes, then your builder, designer and architect will calculate the
heat load or heat demand for you. Calculating the heat load determines the
energy loss your house will have as per the exterior dimensions, insulation
used in home, and the number of windows.
The build design
parameters are used in software that uses the geographical weather data for the
calculation of average coldest day. This software will let you know the minimum
heater size you have to maintain the comfort level in the house as per the
average coldest day you can expect. All of the house builders are able to
provide it for you.
You shouldn’t oversize
the system much as your compressor will have a short cycle. It’s better for
your geothermal system to operate continuously and provide balanced heat to
turn off consistently as it’s oversized.
If you have an old
construction:
The decision is even easier than new construction as you’ve already an
existing heater in place. It will indicate the size of geothermal system you
require. However, you know what your neighbors have. It’s a right way to size
your geothermal system.
Most homes in your neighborhood will be built at a similar time with
exactly same construction. So, if you have a neighbor using geothermal, you
should ask them how it is working. If you are satisfied with the size, you
should ask how many square foot their houses are exactly. With this information
in mind, you can make a good comparison to what you would require based on the
size of your home.
Your geothermal contractor will tell you invest in bringing your house up
to standard insulation value. You should invest in R20’s in the walls and R-40
in the ceiling with good windows. It will be a wise investment and should be
done prior to looking at the alternative heat sources including solar and
geothermal systems.
Conclusion –
Whether you want to
invest in geothermal systems at your home or business, you should look no
further than 123 Zero Energy. We are available to help you in sizing the
geothermal systems. For more information about our packages, please visit our website .