Enertech Blog

Geothermal (aka. ground source) heat pumps are a great all-electric option for heating and cooling buildings. They offer savings on utility bills, they’re low maintenance, and they rank the highest of all HVAC systems in efficiency.  But are they suitable for both residential homes and commercial buildings? Why should architects or anyone else consider geothermal heating and cooling for their projects? 

Ground source heat pumps heat and cool while using less energy, cutting emissions, and keeping building design looking top-notch. This makes them a top choice for architects in the design process. 

Geothermal heat pumps move heat from the earth into a building for heating and move heat out of a building into the ground for cooling. Many of them can pull double duty by providing very efficient domestic hot water. They are highly efficient (up to 400%) because moving heat from one place to another is much less demanding than converting fossil fuels or electricity into heat. This makes them much more environmentally friendly than other HVAC systems. 

Geothermal heat pumps are commonly used in: 

• Single-family homes 

• Multi-family buildings 

• Commercial projects 

• Public buildings such as schools 

Are Geothermal Heat Pumps Considered A Renewable Technology? 

Yes! Geothermal heat pumps move heat from the ground into a building using a series of pipes (a ground loop) buried underground. Any heat moved into a building is quickly replenished by the sun, keeping the ground at a steady temperature. That’s how ground source heat pumps, like the ones made by Enertech, have an efficiency that is over 100%. While geothermal systems require electricity to operate, they are much more efficient than fossil fuel or electric-resistance furnaces and air conditioners. 

Why is Geothermal Attractive To Architects? 

Geothermal heat pumps help meet sustainability goals without compromising aesthetics. They both lower carbon emissions and help meet green building standards and energy codes. Geothermal heat pumps keep designs looking crisp because the ground loops are hidden underground, and the indoor heat pumps are easily installed out of view, in a mechanical room or, in some cases, between trussing. They also eliminate noisy outdoor compressors that take up yard space, interrupt landscaping, and block conversation. This is great for residential and urban projects. 

What Design Flexibility Do Geothermal Heat Pumps Offer? 

Geothermal supports a wide range of installation options, including: 

• Loops can be configured horizontally or vertically to support differences in site sizes. Vertical loop systems are especially well-suited for dense urban development. 

• Unit capacity options and delivery compatibility support a wide array of zones and emitters for comfort in every room. Radiant floors, forced-air ductwork, and towel warmers can be run from a single unit. This allows greater flexibility in floor plans, interior layouts, and comfort controls. 

Their compact footprint lets architects prioritize usable space and creativity in design for new construction and commercial builds. 

Can Geothermal Heat Pumps Be Used in Retrofits or Historic Buildings? 

Yes, geothermal is often an excellent choice for: 

• Renovations 

• Adaptive reuse projects 

• Historic buildings 

Their discreet nature allows designers to upgrade performance and preserve character. 

What Should Architects Consider in the Design Process When It Comes to Geothermal Heating and Cooling? 

Early planning helps optimize: 

• Loop field type and placement 

• Mechanical room layout and sizing 

• Construction sequencing 

To learn more about integrating ground source heat pumps into your projects, please reach out to us. We’d love to discuss your ideas and answer any questions you have.