Geothermal heaters
Geothermal, geo-source, geo-exchange and water-source heat pumps are now available to generate energy from the earth’s heat. A study by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concluded geothermal is the most environmentally friendly heating and cooling energy currently available.
Geothermal heat pumps extract heat from ground wells, earth loops and surface water, as well as heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) cooling towers. Open-loop and closed-loop systems are now being engineered to meet new energy efficiency initiatives.
A final note
While energy efficiency technologies are being implemented by most heating manufacturers, industry professionals should remember the buyer is ultimately looking for payback, which, depending on the system, can take anywhere from two to five years. In an economic climate where value shopping is more the norm, it is up to pool and spa professionals to prove to the customer the ultimate value of a system that may seem more cost-intensive up front.
As the next era of energy efficiency in pool heating dawns, the industry must be conscious of the initial cost versus the energy saving provided. Proving the value of these systems to the customer is the key to future sales. In short, just make good business sense.
As in the past, readers may submit their own experiences and opinions as to how we can best promote heating efficiencies. Send suggestions to ccentrella@keiseruniversity.edu. Comments will be shared with the other participants in the threaded discussion forum.
Connie Gibson Centrella is professor and program director for the online Aquatic Engineering Program at Keiser University eCampus. She is an industry veteran with more than 40 years experience and is a former pool builder with extensive knowledge in pool construction, equipment installation and manufacturing.
