English 421Y: Technical Writing Online

For our group's white paper, my area of research is focused on horizontal closed-loop heat pumps. This category of heat pumps is one of several that collectively define the main array of geothermal heat pumps used today. My first thought, before beginning research, was to decide on a course of action. I really wanted to stay with our white papers purpose, which is essentially to provide accurate, unbiased information concerning geothermal heat pumps, in such a manner that the primary reader, the contractor, will be able to tailor a specific product or technology for the homeowner. In satisfying this requirement, I decided to initially research more general information concerning horizontal closed-loop heat pumps, to begin gaining an understand of the internal workings of such a system, and what advantages or disadvantages such a system might offer.

In completing this initial research, several sources were cited, most notably http://www1.eere.energy.gov/geothermal/heatpumps.html.

This source, listed under the U.S. Dept. of Energy's website, provided accurate and reliable information concerning these horizontal closed-loop heat pumps. The source stated that such a heat pump, as with any other, had the potential to provide both hot and cold air, replacing the typical furnace and air conditioning setup, as well as hot water to replace a water heater. As the source states, this was typically completed through usage of desuperheaters, which transfer excess heat from the pump's compressor to the home's hot water tank.

More importantly, this government sponsored website provided useful insight into the practical uses of such a geothermal heat pump. The source stated that closed-loop horizontal systems were typically most cost-effective for residential installations. This provides an obvious advantage to typically homeowners. One disadvantage of such a system, though, is that it requires a certain amount of land availability that many people don't have. In such a case, a vertically laid closed-loop system is likely to be the only option. As the source states, these systems are more common in fully developed residential regions, while horizontal systems are often more considerable for new construction. Another practical consideration outlined at the Dept. of Energy's page is the geology of the landscape, which can have a significant effect on the heat transfer properties from the soil. This is likely to have an impact on the amount of underground piping necessary. Another consideration is the amount of soil available which, if too shallow or rock-embedded, could prevent the usage of the horizontal closed-loop system.