...holding open geothermal loops??? Yes, I'm sure you knew about the relation between Kentucky limestone and the first two categories, but if you're like me, you had NO idea that hitting limestone is a good thing when drilling holes for geothermal loops. Most of the bedrock here in the bluegrass region is composed of limestone. I like to think that's what all that dust is made up of coming out from under that drill truck, and more than likely it is. However, I always thought you DIDN'T want to hit rock; that it would cost more money to drill if you did, and in some cases, that is true. Granite, for example, is a very hard rock and the drill costs can be twice to three times the cost of drilling through, say, limestone. On the other hand, you don't want loose, silty soil because the possibility is greater that the hole could collapse in on the loops. So, in a nutshell, we're in the perfect location for geothermal heating and cooling systems. Limestone is easy and cost effective to drill through, and it helps to hold the holes open around the loops.
What is geothermal heating and cooling and how does it work? Well, I had to do a little research myself when we decided to install a Waterfurnace geothermal system with the guys from Arronco. The Earth's temperature remains a constant 45 -75 degrees depending upon which area of the Earth you live. A geothermal heat pump moves heat from the Earth into your house in the winter, and pulls the heat out of the air and moves it back into the Earth during the summer. All this occurs within a series of pipes, or loops, filled with liquid that transfers that energy via an electric "changer" that then flows that heated or cool air through your home via traditional duct work. Now this is a very simple explanation, so I would recommend looking up geothermal heating and cooling to get a more in depth study. However, I do know that a 40-75% savings in heating and cooling means money in our pockets every month. That is easy to understand! Also, keep in mind that there is currently a 30% tax credit on the total install (no cap)of a geothermal heating and cooling system. I never knew I could get so excited about utilities! So if you are thinking about building, think seriously about installing a geothermal heating and cooling system. With substantial monthly energy savings, a 30% tax credit, pay back starting day one, and the use of a renewable source of energy, you can feel confident that it's well worth the investment. I know we did. And hey, with Keeneland opening in a couple of months, you can take a couple of those extra bucks and play them on the ponies, "Go Baby, go!" Oh wait, in this case, it's "Drill, baby, drill!" Okay, okay..time for me to sign off; I'm getting silly. Have a great day today and come back soon for concrete, hardwood, and tile!
