A ground-coupled cooling system, also known as ground source cooling or geothermal cooling, is a type of cooling system that utilizes the relatively constant temperature of the ground as a heat sink to remove heat from a building. It works on the principle of heat exchange with the ground, where the ground acts as a source of cooling rather than a source of heat, as in geothermal heating systems.
In this system, a series of pipes, often buried underground or submerged in a water body, are used to circulate a fluid, typically water or a mixture of water and antifreeze. As the fluid passes through the ground, it absorbs heat from the building and cools down. The cooled fluid then returns to the building and circulates through a heat exchanger, where it transfers the heat to the cooler indoor air or other heat sinks, such as a radiant cooling system.
The ground-coupled cooling system takes advantage of the stable temperature of the ground, which remains relatively constant throughout the year, typically between 10-16 degrees Celsius (50-60 degrees Fahrenheit) below the surface. This allows the system to provide efficient cooling even in hot climates. It also reduces the reliance on traditional air conditioning systems, resulting in energy savings and lower carbon emissions.
Some benefits of ground-coupled cooling systems include reduced energy consumption, lower operating costs, and minimal environmental impact compared to conventional cooling systems. However, the installation of such systems can be expensive, requiring excavation and ground preparation, which may limit their widespread adoption.
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