Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are electrically powered systems that tap the stored energy of the greatest solar collector in existence: the earth. These systems use the earth's relatively constant temperature to provide heating, cooling, and hot water for homes and commercial buildings.

In a typical geothermal home system, a mixture of water and antifreeze is pumped through pipes that run horizontally or vertically below ground where the temperature is a steady 50 to 55 degrees. During cold weather, circulating fluid is warmed underground through heat exchange and then returned to the house, where it is heated further.

During summer the process is reversed. The mixture transfers excess heat from the house to underground.

As with any alternative-energy system, there are some obstacles.  Dense rock or fast-moving underground water can make a geothermal project ineffective.

East Coast Alternative Energy has recently recieved acceditation from IGSHPA, the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association, has installed two systems, and is now adding Geothermal Services to it's product offering. To learn more, call for a no-obligation home consultation.

For More information visit the IGSHA Website at http://www.igshpa.okstate.edu/geothermal/geothermal.htm