Lähdejähdejärjestelmä

Lähdejähdejärjestelmä, often translated as "source refrigeration system" or "geothermal cooling system," refers to a type of climate control system that utilizes the stable temperature of the earth or groundwater to provide cooling for buildings. Unlike conventional air conditioning systems that rely on refrigerants and dissipate heat into the outdoor air, a lähdejähdejärjestelmä transfers heat from the building to the ground or a water source.

The core component of such a system is a ground heat exchanger, which typically consists of a network of pipes buried underground or submerged in a nearby body of water. During warmer months, a fluid, usually a mixture of water and antifreeze, circulates through these pipes. As the fluid passes through the earth or water, it absorbs heat from the building and transfers it to the ground. The cooled fluid then returns to the building to absorb more heat.

This process effectively reverses the operation of a geothermal heating system, which uses the earth's warmth in winter. The primary advantage of a lähdejähdejärjestelmä is its energy efficiency. By leveraging the earth's constant temperature, which remains around 10-16 degrees Celsius year-round in many regions, the system requires significantly less energy to achieve cooling compared to traditional methods. This leads to lower electricity bills and a reduced environmental impact.

Installation involves drilling boreholes for vertical loops or excavating trenches for horizontal loops, depending on the available space and geological conditions. The initial cost of installation can be higher than conventional systems, but the long-term savings in energy consumption and reduced maintenance make it a cost-effective solution over the lifespan of the system. Lähdejähdejärjestelmäs are also known for their quiet operation and durability.