Geothermal Heating and Cooling: Technology and Applications

This 7-hour course explores the science, operation, architecture, benefits, and efficiency of geothermal heating and cooling systems. The course analyzes the design of both closed and open loop systems, demonstrates how to measure efficiency and soil conductivity, and explains how to select components, size systems, and install loops. The course concludes with an assessment of geothermal case studies.

The curriculum begins by establishing the case for geothermal energy, contrasting it with conventional fossil fuel systems. You will explore the fundamental refrigeration cycle—the heart of any heat pump—and learn how the compressor, condenser, metering device, and evaporator work in unison to transfer heat rather than generate it. The course demystifies the terminology, moving from basic thermodynamics to the specific mechanics of geo-exchange systems.

A significant portion of the course is dedicated to the "earth loop" itself. You will examine the architecture of various loop configurations, including horizontal trenches, vertical bores, slinky loops, and pond applications. The instructor breaks down the critical differences between closed-loop and open-loop (pump and dump) systems, discussing the impact of local topography, soil thermal conductivity, and hydrology on system design. From drilling and grouting to selecting the right antifreeze, every aspect of the exterior installation is covered.

Moving inside the building, the course details the mechanical room components. You will learn about flow centers, circulating pumps, and the mathematics behind sizing equipment properly. The instructor emphasizes the importance of accurate load calculations—evaluating heat loss and gain through transmission, infiltration, and solar effect—to ensure systems are neither undersized nor wastefully oversized. The discussion extends to economic analysis, teaching you how to calculate Coefficients of Performance (COP) and Energy Efficiency Ratios (EER) to demonstrate return on investment.

Key topics covered in this course include:

• Fundamentals of Geothermal Energy: Understanding the refrigeration cycle, heat transfer, and the components of a water-source heat pump.
• Earth Loop Configurations: Detailed analysis of vertical, horizontal, pond, and open-loop systems, including excavation and boring techniques.
• Soil and Geology: How thermal conductivity, soil types (sand, clay, rock), and grout selection impact system efficiency.
• System Design and Sizing: Performing accurate load calculations, determining loop lengths, and selecting the right heat pump capacity.
• Piping and Pumping: Interior piping layouts, flow center selection (pressurized vs. non-pressurized), and head loss calculations.
• Water-to-Water vs. Water-to-Air: Exploring different distribution methods, including radiant floor heating and domestic hot water generation.
• Economics and Efficiency: Evaluating operational savings, calculating ROI, understanding tax incentives, and reviewing real-world case studies.

By the end of this presentation, you will possess a robust understanding of how to evaluate, design, and justify geothermal systems. Through detailed case studies—ranging from residential net-zero homes to large-scale university retrofits—you will see the tangible benefits of this technology in action. Join us to master the mechanics of the most energy-efficient heating and cooling technology on the market today.