Maalämpöön

Maalämpöön is a Finnish term referring to geothermal heating systems that utilize the stable temperature of the earth for heating and cooling buildings. This technology taps into the heat stored underground, which remains relatively constant throughout the year, offering a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating methods.

The fundamental principle involves a ground loop, a network of pipes buried at varying depths in the earth. A fluid circulates through these pipes, absorbing heat from the soil or bedrock in winter and dissipating heat into the ground in summer. This absorbed or dissipated heat is then transferred to a heat pump located within the building.

The heat pump concentrates the thermal energy and uses it to warm the building's heating system, typically underfloor heating or radiators. In cooling mode, the process is reversed, with the heat pump extracting heat from the building and transferring it back into the ground.

Maalämpöön systems are known for their high efficiency, as heat pumps require less electricity to produce a greater amount of heat compared to direct electric heating. This leads to significant reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions. While the initial installation cost can be higher than conventional systems, the long-term savings on energy bills and the environmental benefits make it an attractive investment for many homeowners and businesses. The lifespan of a maalämpöön system is also considerable, often exceeding 20 years for the heat pump and 50 years for the ground loop.