REEN-110: Geothermal Systems and Water Furnace Technology

School
Business, Entrepreneurship, and Professional Development
Division
Building Sciences
Department
Energy Technology
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Renewable Energy
Course Number
110
Course Title
Geothermal Systems and Water Furnace Technology
Credit Hours
2.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
32.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
32.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Catalog Course Description

Introduces the topic of geothermal energy, identifies geothermal energy sources, and provides an overview of how geothermal energy is used. Emphasizes residential heating using ground source heat pump technology. Covers the installation of a geothermal furnace in a residential application including an initial survey of the home and property, sizing of the unit, and the choice of the type of loop system to use. Also covers installation and maintenance of a geothermal heating system. Access to a working water furnace system and to on campus geothermal wells is available for laboratory activities.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Core Course Topics
  1. Introduction to Geothermal Energy.
  2. Geothermal Energy Systems in use today.
  3. Geothermal Power Generation.
  4. Heat Pump Technology.
  5. Geothermal Furnace Systems.
  6. Site Location Survey for Water Furnace Installation
  7. Choice and location of Water Loop.
  8. Installation and testing of Loop System.
  9. Water Furnace Heating Cycle.
  10. Water Furnace Cooling Cycle.
  11. Operation dnd Maintenance of a Water Furnace System.
  12. Geothermal Energy's Effect on the Environment and Economy.
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)
  1. Define geothermal energy.
  2. Describe how geothermal systems function.
  3. Describe where geothermal energy is used worldwide.
  4. Describe how water furnace systems function.
  5. Define two types of loop systems used in water furnaces.*
  6. Perform a survey on a residential application for the installation of a water furnace.*
  7. Describe the steps in installation of a water furnace.
  8. Demonstrate the typical operation and maintenance of a water furnace for heating and cooling.
  9. Discuss how the use of geothermal energy will affect the environment and the economy.*

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Methods for measuring achievement of objectives:

  1. Tests will be given throughout the semester.  Test scores represent 65% of the course grade.
  2. Laboratory activities and performance exercises will be done where students will demonstrate an understanding of practical applications.  These will make up 10% of the course grade.
  3. A written final exam will be given which will represent 25% of the course grade.
Effective Term
Summer 2014