Energy 101: Geothermal Heat Pumps

Notes from our reviewers

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• Teaching Tips
  More information is given at [http://www1.eere.energy.gov/geothermal/]. Because this has a residential focus, teachers should discuss the capital cost of geothermal systems as they are expensive to install (Capital Cost of $20k - $35k) and costs vary depending on location/ease of drilling. The video only addresses the lower operating costs of a geothermal heat pump. Cost estimator link: [http://www.geosunnrg.com/geothermal-cost-estimator/index.cfm?step1]
• About the Science
  This video shows how geothermal heat pumps extract clean, reliable, renewable energy using the heat from beneath Earth's surface. Such heat pumps can assist in minimizing the amount of energy required for heating or cooling buildings. Comments from expert scientist: Very simple scientific video presentation of this remarkable renewable technology that should be used by more people.
• About the Pedagogy
  Diagrams are well done and helpful for understanding.
• Technical Details/Ease of Use
  Video length: 2:47 min.