Yes, some heat pump systems use water. Specifically, ground-source heat pumps use water mixed with antifreeze.
Ground-Source Heat Pumps and Water Usage
Ground-source heat pumps (also known as geothermal heat pumps) utilize the earth's natural heat. The process involves the following:
- Circulation: A mixture of water and antifreeze is pumped through a ground loop, which is buried underground.
- Heat Absorption: As the mixture circulates, it absorbs heat from the ground.
- Heat Transfer: The heated mixture is then compressed and passed through a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger extracts the heat and transfers it to the heat pump.
- Home Heating: Finally, the heat pump transfers this heat to your home's heating system.
Conclusion
Ground-source heat pumps rely on a water and antifreeze mixture to transfer heat from the ground to your home.
