Maalämpöisten

Maalämpöisten is a Finnish term that translates to "geothermally heated" or "ground-source heated" in English. It refers to a heating system that utilizes the stable temperature of the earth to provide heat for buildings. This is achieved through a ground-source heat pump, which exchanges heat with the ground or groundwater.

The system typically involves a network of pipes buried underground, known as collectors. These pipes circulate a fluid that absorbs heat from the earth. The warmed fluid is then pumped to a heat pump located inside the building. The heat pump uses a refrigeration cycle to extract the heat from the fluid and transfer it to the building's heating system, such as radiators or underfloor heating. In warmer months, the process can be reversed to provide cooling.

Maalämpöisten systems are considered an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional heating methods like oil or electric heating. They significantly reduce carbon emissions because the primary energy source is renewable (the earth's heat), and the electricity required to run the heat pump is a fraction of the energy delivered as heat. The initial installation cost can be higher than traditional systems, but the long-term savings on energy bills and reduced environmental impact make it an attractive option for many. The effectiveness of a maalämpöisten system depends on factors such as the local climate, soil conditions, and the size and insulation of the building.