How Geothermal Works As the seasons change from spring to winter, temperature fluctuates throughout the year. Some climates can range from scorching summers to chilly winters; Alaska included. Did you know there is a fairly consistent temperature, regardless of climate or season, just below the ground? The Earth's crust absorbs 47% of the sun's heat (energy) and is sustained in the ground a few feet underneath the surface. Our geothermal systems extract this free heat with an earth loop. This innovative technology salvages the sun's heat providing your home or office with central heating and cooling. Geothermal Heating During the heating cycle, a geothermal heat pump uses the earth loop to extract heat from the ground. As the system pulls heat from the loop it circulates it through a standard duct system as warm air. The same heat energy can also be put to use for a radiant floor system or domestic hot water heating. Geothermal Cooling The heating process is reversed in the cooling mode - creating cold, conditioned air throughout the home. Instead of pulling heat from the ground, heat is extracted from the air in your home and either moved back into the earth loop, or used to preheat the water in your hot water tank. For more information on how to get started with a geothermal system in the Alaska area, contact Energy Efficiency Associates. Start saving on your energy bills today.