Geothermal energy relies on the earth's subsurface temperature to provide multiple services to your home. To power these systems, professional drillers will need to create geothermal wells, which supply the energy from the earth or nearby groundwater. If you're considering switching to a heat pump system that uses this type of energy, here's what you should know about geothermal wells.

How Do Geothermal Wells Work?

Geothermal wells use a loop-shaped pattern of pipes and a heat pump to transfer heat either from the earth to your home (for heating purposes) or from your home to the earth (for cooling purposes). The loops are either open or closed, and they're filled in with grout to promote heat transference.

In a closed-loop system, pipework contains a mix of water and antifreeze that constantly circulates, transferring heat between your home and the soil. Closed loops can be horizontal, which means the pipes run length-wise through your property, or vertical, where the pipes run down into the earth. The latter requires a contractor to drill multiple geothermal wells several inches wide and several hundred feet deep to fit the pipes. 

Open-loop systems use pure groundwater to move heat, sending the used water back into the water supply or a low-lying area. All open-loop systems need a supply well that draws in fresh water and a discharge well that sends the used water back into the source. Since it draws water constantly, your contractor may need to verify that there's enough groundwater to support the system. 

Why Should I Consider Using Geothermal Energy?

Geothermal energy can be used for a variety of home needs, including heating, cooling, and maintaining hot water. Compared to natural gas or fuel, geothermal systems cost less to run and maintain because of their impressive efficiency. They're also much more eco-friendly, as they don't emit harmful fumes or waste non-renewable resources. 

Geothermal heat pumps are also incredibly durable, lasting for 20 years or more, on average, while the pipes beneath the ground can last for up to 50. The only maintenance they typically need is a seasonal inspection to ensure everything is working properly. You'll also need to change any air filters every few months, as you would with a standard HVAC system, to keep your home's air quality healthy.

If geothermal energy is right for your home, contact the well drilling contractors at Stackhouse & Son Well Drilling in Bloomsburg, PA. Having served the area since 1971, their family-owned business will help you keep your home comfortable all year long by drilling safe and effective geothermal wells. They offer same-day service and work hard to meet their clients' needs. Discover all of their services online, and request a free estimate by calling (570) 784-5034.