What are the Major differences between closed loop and open loop geothermal heat pumps?I need help with one more question after this complete my project :) thanks guys
A closed loop system pumps the material - typically a liquid - within a confined and sealed system. Under normal conditions, there is no way for anything to enter or exit from the loop. Once filled, it remains filled. Heat transfer is done through having that closed system fluid run, in pipes, through another fluid to exchange heat. Because the closed loop liquid never comes in contact with any other liquids or components outside of the loop, it can be a non-potable solution, like water and antifreeze, or other materials that increase its heat capacity or has other benefits. It can also run at higher pressure or flow rates that would be possible in an open system. Dissolved gases in the liquid gradually are driven out of the fluid, and would be released through a purge valve. In actual systems, since there might be leaks from time to time, there is a port through which one could add more solution to the closed system, and there is a valve with which to drain it for repair purposes. An open system is one where the fluid is not isolated, and may, in fact, be connected to the domestic water supply. This system is open in the sense that it comes into contact with other systems. The heat transfer could be through a heat exchanger, but it could also be just as easy to run the hot water through radiant heat flooring, or baseboard hot water radiators. The system never needs to explicitly be refilled, as it is getting new water all the time from whatever else it is connected to. Dissolved gases are never purged as there is always a new supply of water being introduced into the system. This would operate at normal water pressure levels.
