Aire Serv experts explain how geothermal cooling uses stable underground temperatures to cool homes efficiently.
- Underground loop systems transfer heat.
- Fluid circulating through the loops absorbs indoor heat.
- Absorbed heat is released into the earth.
- Cool air from the earth is distributed throughout the home.
Geothermal cooling harnesses the earth's natural underground temperature to provide efficient cooling for homes. Modern geothermal heating and cooling systems use the same technology for both functions, providing a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.
Understanding how geothermal cooling works can help you evaluate whether this technology fits your needs and energy goals.
How Does Geothermal Heating and Cooling Work?
If you have a geothermal heating system, it can likely be reversed to cool your home, too. Most modern geothermal heating and cooling systems feature a reversing valve, allowing you to heat your home in the winter and keep it cool in the summer with a single system.
Geothermal heating and cooling systems can operate effectively in any climate because below-ground temperatures typically remain between 45 and 75℉ depending on the location. A geothermal heating and cooling system harnesses this natural ambient temperature to regulate your home's comfort levels throughout the year.
Components of a geothermal cooling system
Every geothermal heating and cooling system consists of three main parts:
- A loop of pipes buried underground to transfer energy to and from the system
- Liquid refrigerant, circulating throughout the pipe system to transfer heat into or out of the home
- A heat pump, usually located inside the home
- A heating and cooling distribution system, located inside the home
The geothermal cooling process explained
The geothermal cooling process is relatively uncomplicated. In the winter, the ground loop collects the heat from the earth via a liquid refrigerant. The heated refrigerant creates warm air, which the heat pump directs to the home's heating and cooling distribution system.
In summer, the process reverses: The heat pump collects heat from your home and transfers it to the refrigerant, which carries it to dissipate into the earth below. The earth's stable temperature naturally cools the air, which is then recirculated into your home to help maintain a lower indoor temperature.
Benefits of Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems
When a geothermal heating and cooling system operates efficiently, it requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional HVAC systems. The system works in harmony with the earth's natural temperatures to provide consistent heating in winter and reliable cooling in summer, maintaining your home's comfort levels year-round.
Long-term cost savings
While geothermal cooling costs more upfront, these systems offer substantial savings over time compared to traditional heating and cooling systems. Geothermal components need fewer repairs and consume considerably less electricity than conventional HVAC units. In fact, the energy efficiency of geothermal systems can reduce typical heating and cooling costs by 30 to 70 percent.
Exceptional durability
Geothermal heating and cooling systems are built to last. The average lifespan of a geothermal system is 24 years—significantly longer than 12–15 years for traditional HVAC systems. With proper maintenance, geothermal systems have even been known to operate efficiently for up to 50 years! This exceptional longevity ensures you'll see a strong return on your investment when you choose a geothermal heating and cooling system.
Environmental benefits
Geothermal systems produce no direct emissions and draw on the earth for natural temperature regulation. This makes geothermal one of the most environmentally friendly heating and cooling options available. Geothermal cooling is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying a naturally cool home.
Quiet Operation
Unlike traditional air conditioning units with noisy outdoor compressors, geothermal systems operate virtually silently. The underground loops produce no noise and the heat pump components are located indoors, facilitating a peaceful environment around your home.
Is Geothermal Cooling Right for Your Home?
Geothermal heating and cooling systems are well-suited for most climates and soil conditions. An Aire Serv® professional can evaluate your property to determine if geothermal cooling is suitable for your situation. Factors like available yard space, soil composition, and your home's heating and cooling needs all influence whether a geothermal system is the right choice.
The cost of geothermal cooling depends on your home's size, the local geology, and the specific system installed. While geothermal systems cost more upfront than traditional HVAC units, they typically pay for themselves through energy savings over time. Tax credits and local incentives may be available to help reduce your initial investment.
Breathe Easy with Geothermal HVAC Support from Aire Serv
Your local Aire Serv team can help you choose and maintain the ideal HVAC system for your home or business. Whether you’re interested in geothermal heating and cooling or a traditional system, trust our experts to advise you every step of the way. The best time to schedule heating or cooling service is before you need it. Call today or request an appointment online to get started.
Keeping your home cool takes more than an air conditioner. To maintain an energy-efficient home, supplement your heating or cooling system with multi-pane, low-E glass windows from our friends at Glass Doctor®. Like Aire Serv, Glass Doctor is a member of the Neighborly® family of trusted home service brands.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Aire Serv is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Aire Serv location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
FAQs About Geothermal Cooling
30+ years in the HVAC business have taught us a lot, including the importance of sharing our knowledge and experience to answer your questions about HVAC service. Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions about geothermal heating and cooling.
How efficient is geothermal cooling compared to traditional air conditioning?
Geothermal cooling systems are significantly more efficient than traditional air conditioning units. While each system uses different efficiency measurements, geothermal systems consistently outperform conventional air conditioning.
For a deeper understanding of geothermal efficiency vs. traditional HVAC systems, you’ll need to become familiar with the difference between Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER).
- EER (Energy Efficiency Rating) is the ratio of the cooling output (in BTUs) to the energy consumed (in watts) at a fixed outdoor temperature (usually 95°F). EER is useful for determining efficiency under specific, constant conditions.
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) takes into account changes in outdoor temperatures throughout an entire cooling season. By averaging the system's efficiency over a range of temperatures, it provides a more accurate reflection of typical performance throughout the year. The higher the SEER, the more energy-efficient the unit is over time.
Because geothermal systems heat or cool based on the earth’s relatively consistent underground temperature, efficiency is measured in EER (typically 16–30), while traditional AC units measure efficiency in SEER, with a typical rating of 13–21. Overall, geothermal cooling is a more energy-efficient option.
What does geothermal system maintenance actually involve?
Geothermal heating and cooling systems require less maintenance than traditional HVAC systems, but regular upkeep is still important.
What you can do yourself:
- Change air filters regularly (every 1–3 months).
- Clean the condensation pan and drain annually.
- Check thermostat operation and battery.
Annual professional maintenance includes:
- Checking coolant/antifreeze levels in the ground loops
- Inspecting for leaks in the underground piping system
- Testing system pressures and repressurizing if needed
- Cleaning heat pump coils and components
- Lubricating motors and moving parts
- Verifying electrical connections and safety controls
- Acid flushing for open-loop systems (if applicable)
The underground loops typically last 25–50 years with minimal maintenance, while the indoor heat pump components require annual attention similar to traditional heat pumps.
Does geothermal cooling work everywhere, or just in certain climates?
Geothermal cooling works effectively in virtually all climates. The earth's relatively stable underground temperature (from 45–75℉) allows these systems to function in hot or cold environments without the stress of combating fluctuating air temperatures.
However, some site-specific factors can affect the feasibility and efficiency of installation. Moist soil provides better heat transfer than dry soil, and rocky terrain can make installation more challenging. Climate, soil conditions, available land, and local installation costs can all impact whether geothermal or traditional HVAC equipment is the best choice.
Aire Serv service professionals can evaluate these factors to determine if geothermal is right for your specific property.
