How to Protect Your Closed-Loop Geothermal System

As energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solutions continue to gain traction, closed loop geothermal systems are emerging as a reliable option for heating and cooling. However, to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your closed loop geothermal system, proper protection and maintenance are crucial. In this expert guide from CORECHEM, we explore essential strategies for safeguarding your investment.

Before we delve into the details, let’s take a quick look at what closed-loop geothermal systems are, and how they operate with the use of Heat Transfer Fluids.

The Importance of Heat Transfer Fluids in Solar Thermal Systems Explained

How Closed-Loop Geothermal Systems Utilize Heat Transfer Fluid

Closed loop geothermal systems are innovative and energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions that harness the consistent temperature of the earth to regulate indoor climates. These systems operate by circulating a specialized Heat Transfer Fluid (HTF) through a closed loop of pipes buried beneath the ground. 

As the HTF travels through the loop, it absorbs or releases heat from the surrounding earth, depending on whether the goal is heating or cooling. This heat exchange process allows the system to efficiently transfer thermal energy, enabling it to provide comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. With these benefits in-mind, it’s no surprise that geothermal resources are being investigated and exploited in approximately 88 countries around the world. 

Closed loop geothermal systems are particularly beneficial due to their environmentally friendly nature, lower operating costs, and minimal impact on the surrounding environment. In particular, they offer a sustainable alternative to traditional HVAC systems, contributing to energy conservation and reduced carbon footprint.

Why Closed-Loop Geothermal Systems Demand Protection

While closed loop geothermal systems offer exceptional energy efficiency and reliability, proper protection is essential to ensure their long-term performance and durability. These systems operate in a demanding environment, facing potential challenges that can impact their efficiency and effectiveness. Here are some of the key areas where your system will require protection:

• Freeze Protection: One of the primary reasons closed loop geothermal systems require protection is the threat of freezing temperatures. The Heat Transfer Fluid (HTF) used in these systems circulates through pipes buried underground. During cold weather, there’s a risk that the HTF could freeze, causing the pipes to expand and potentially leading to cracks or leaks. Adequate freeze protection achieved through the use of specialized HTFs, diluted to the proper ratio for the climate they are in, prevents this issue and ensures uninterrupted operation even in the coldest climates.
• Organic Growth: Another challenge is the potential for organic growth within the closed loop system. Microorganisms, bacteria, and algae can proliferate within the HTF if not properly managed. This growth can lead to reduced heat transfer efficiency, clogs, and corrosion, negatively impacting the system’s performance over time. Effective treatment measures, such as using system cleaners or disinfectants, are necessary to prevent organic growth and maintain optimal heat transfer.  Annual testing of your HTF fluid can detect biological issues before they become major problems.
• Fluid Degradation: Continuous exposure to temperature fluctuations, oxygen, and other environmental factors can lead to fluid degradation. Over time, the Heat Transfer Fluid may lose its thermal properties, which can result in reduced system efficiency and compromised heat exchange. Monitoring the fluid’s properties and ensuring timely replacements or rejuvenation are crucial to preserving the closed loop system’s overall effectiveness (for more advice on CORECHEM’s fluid testing service, click here).
• System Longevity: Geothermal systems are significant investments, and their longevity directly impacts their return on investment. Proper protection not only prevents immediate issues but also contributes to the extended lifespan of the system. By safeguarding against freeze damage, organic growth, and fluid degradation, you’re ensuring that your geothermal system continues to deliver energy-efficient performance for years to come.

Closed-Loop Geothermal Systems: How to Protect Your Investment with Heat Transfer Fluids

The selection of an appropriate Heat Transfer Fluid (HTF) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your geothermal system. Methanol-based, ethanol-based, and propylene glycol-based solutions offer effective freeze protection.

• Methanol-Based Solutions: Methanol is known for its excellent freeze protection capabilities, but it requires careful handling due to its toxicity and flammability. Using a professional-grade methanol-based HTF can ensure your system’s safety and performance. Our GeoChill+™ range offers excellent corrosion protection along with antiseptic properties, ensuring that bio-fouling is not a concern.
• Ethanol-Based Solutions: Ethanol-based HTFs are gaining popularity for their biodegradable nature and less toxic profile. While they must be handled with care due to the flammability, they provide efficient freeze protection while aligning with eco-conscious practices. Aside from long life expectancy, CORECHEM’s Exo Endosol™ range offers excellent heat transfer characteristics. 
• Propylene Glycol-Based Solutions: Propylene glycol-based HTFs, like GlycoChill+ P200HD from CORECHEM, offer both freeze protection and enhanced thermal conductivity. What’s more, the GlycoChill+ P-Series is 100% USDA Certified Biobased. This means that it has been 100% derived from renewable sources. This will allow you to meet your sustainability goals by reducing your carbon footprint and protecting the environment. This HTF is also non-toxic and non-hazardous. These solutions ensure system integrity while optimizing heat transfer efficiency.

Combatting Organic Growth with Proper Treatment

Preventing organic growth is paramount in maintaining the efficiency and lifespan of your geothermal system. After installation, it’s imperative to address potential organic growth through effective treatment.

• Sodium Hypochlorite Solution: A sodium hypochlorite solution, commonly known as bleach, can be used to disinfect your closed loop system. This product eliminates microbial contaminants and keeps your system running smoothly.
• Closed Loop System Cleaner (e.g., GlycoClean): Specialized closed loop system cleaners, like GlycoClean, offer a comprehensive solution to combat organic growth. These cleaners are designed to remove accumulated deposits and prevent the development of biofilms that can impair heat transfer efficiency.

 

Protect Your Investment with CORECHEM

Investing in a closed loop geothermal system is an investment in energy efficiency and sustainability. Here at CORECHEM, we’re passionate about helping our customers protect that investment. For more advice on protecting your closed-loop geothermal system, contact us.