Hybrid ground coupled heat exchanger systems for space heating/cooling applications: A review

Ground coupled heat exchanger (GCHE) systems are used for space heating/cooling across the globe. Hybrid GCHE systems are being preferred over unitary system due to higher efficiency. GCHE system can be classified as earth air heat exchanger (EAHE) and ground source heat pump (GSHP). Fast depleting stocks, recent rise in costs of fossil fuels and its serious impact on climate makes it imperative to adopt renewable and environment friendly sources of energy and energy conservation. The aim of this study is to review the current status of hybrid GCHE systems with passive renewable systems. The paper concisely explains EAHE, GSHP and various passive techniques commonly used for space heating/cooling and review state of the art of hybrid EAHE and GSHP systems. A comparative study of various technologies has been presented and their role in energy conservation highlighted.