Cumberland Harbour's first home with energy saving geothermal heating & cooling is being built for the Scherck family by builder D.C. Robertson.
According to EnergyStar.gov, geothermal heat systems are similar to ordinary heat pumps, but use the ground instead of outside air to provide heating, air conditioning and hot water. Because they use the earth's natural heat, they are among the most efficient heating and cooling technologies available.
The Scherck system is Energy Star compliant and consists of five 300-foot deep ground loops connected through a geothermal manifold to the HVAC system. A home automation computer controlling three temperature zones manages it. The system, with other energy-saving features, is projected to provide energy savings of 50% to 65%.
