Source of Energy

There are two types of geothermal energy sources

Horizontal Ground Collectors: Essence and Operating Principle

Horizontal ground collectors are an essential component of geothermal energy systems, providing an efficient and environmentally friendly solution for heating and cooling. These collectors are installed beneath the ground surface, typically at a depth of 1.5–2.5 meters, where the temperature remains stable and suitable for heat exchange.

Key Features and Operating Principle:

  • Energy Source: Horizontal collectors utilize ground heat, which accumulates from solar energy and the Earth's internal heat. This energy is transferred to the geothermal system via a heat carrier (e.g., glycol mixture).
  • Installation Depth: Collectors are installed at a depth of 1.5–2.5 meters, ensuring optimal heat transfer. The best results are achieved when collectors are located below the groundwater level.
  • Efficiency: The efficiency of the collectors depends on the soil type – clay or moist soil provides better heat transfer compared to sandy soil.
  • Eco-Friendliness: This system reduces energy consumption and CO2 emissions, making it a sustainable solution for heating and cooling needs.

Advantages:

  • Energy Efficiency: Horizontal ground collectors significantly reduce energy consumption compared to traditional systems.
  • Longevity: The system's lifespan is virtually unlimited if properly maintained.
  • Low Operating Costs: Maintenance costs are minimal after installation.
  • Wide Applicability: Suitable for both residential and public buildings.

Horizontal ground collectors are an effective solution that combines modern technology with a sustainable approach to energy use.

Vertical Boreholes: Essence and Operating Principle

Vertical boreholes are another essential component of geothermal energy systems, offering high efficiency and broad applicability in various climatic conditions. This method involves drilling deep boreholes into the ground to access stable underground temperatures suitable for heat exchange.

Key Features and Operating Principle:

  • Energy Source: Vertical boreholes extract the Earth's internal heat, which is transferred to the geothermal system using a heat carrier (e.g., glycol mixture or antifreeze).
  • Installation Depth: Borehole depths typically range from 50 to 200 meters, depending on soil and geological conditions. Deeper layers provide more stable and efficient heat exchange temperatures.
  • Efficiency: Vertical boreholes are particularly suitable for areas with limited land space, as they require less surface area compared to horizontal collectors.
  • Sustainability: This method significantly reduces energy consumption and CO2 emissions, making it an environmentally friendly solution.

Advantages:

  • High Efficiency: Vertical boreholes provide consistent energy production regardless of seasonal changes or surface soil temperatures.
  • Compact Solution: Ideal for areas with limited available land.
  • Longevity: The system is highly durable and can last for decades with minimal maintenance.
  • Wide Applicability: Suitable for residential, commercial, and public building projects.

Vertical boreholes are a sustainable and efficient solution, ensuring high energy efficiency and adaptability for various projects.

The geothermal pre-conditioning employs a geothermal heat collector to transfer geothermal heat from the ground to the air passing through the brine defroster. This collector comprises a PE-pipe, whose length depends on local conditions such as soil type and groundwater level. Compact and loamy soils transfer more heat to the brine than loose, sandy soils. If the pipe is below the groundwater level, the brine absorbs more energy from the soil. Only the length of the pipes in the ground should be considered when calculating pipe length, as pipes within the building do not affect energy absorption. Pipe length may need to be doubled in sandy soils.

The geothermal heat collector can be installed in open spaces or trench systems, depending on property size. Pipes must be laid horizontally at a depth of 1.5 to 2 meters, but not deeper than 5 meters. The minimum distance between pipes should be 0.8 meters. The highest point of the brine circuit is the vent of the brine-defroster's float vent. Vertical drilling can also serve as an energy source, with required depths calculated by the installer. In some cases, a ground heat pump brine circuit can be used as an energy source.