Geothermal system

Abstract

A geothermal system, comprising at least one geothermal column, comprising at least one spirally wound refrigeration coil configured to communicate with a heat pump compressor; a hollow tube having an outer wall of diameter substantially greater than that of said at least one spirally wound refrigeration coil and positioned so as to surround said at least one spirally wound refrigeration coil, said outer wall having a substantially rigid configuration such that said hollow tube maintains its shape; and a support member configured to retain a shape of said at least one spirally wound refrigeration coil and maintain a centrally located position of said at least one spirally wound refrigeration coil within said hollow tube; and a compressor section in communication with the at least one geothermal column and a climate system.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional application No. 61 / 410,053 filed Nov. 4, 2010, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates generally to the field of geothermal heating and cooling, and more particularly to an improved heat transfer geothermal system that includes at least one geothermal column positioned within an earth mass for transfer of heat to and from the earth mass.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Any publications or references discussed herein are presented to describe the background of the invention and to provide additional detail regarding its practice. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention.[0004]Geothermal energy is becoming more and more important in the global environment as the supply of fossil fuels diminish, the demand for ener...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an improved geothermal system that includes a geothermal column that is easy to install and has enhanced heat transfer qualities. The column uses an antifreeze-free liquid to transfer heat in a vertical orientation, which requires less digging and has low impact on the environment. The system also includes a pre-fabricated unit that can be installed quickly and easily with little labor. The hollow tube construction allows for efficient heat transfer without the need for antifreeze, reducing the chance of contaminating the surrounding soil. The new factory assembled unit has a superior degree of heat transfer with reduced hot or cold spots.

Problems solved by technology

Geothermal energy is becoming more and more important in the global environment as the supply of fossil fuels diminish, the demand for energy increases, control and demands from oil producing companies are at issue and the costs of energy continues to rise.

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