Michael J Albertson

US Patent:

50818481, Jan 21, 1992

Filed:

Nov 7, 1990

Appl. No.:

7/610187

Inventors:

John P. Rawlings - Oklahoma City OK
Michael E. Albertson - Oklahoma City OK

International Classification:

F25B 2700
F25B 2900

US Classification:

62260

Abstract:

A ground source air conditioning system for a structure. The system comprises a de-icing conduit array for de-icing nearby surfaces, such as sidewalks, parking lots and driveways. The air conditioning system includes a refrigeration unit, and the heat from the refrigerant in the refrigeration unit is transferred to a heat transfer fluid. The heat transfer fluid is conducted to a heat exchanger, which preferably is located underground, such as an array of vertically or horizontally arranged conduits. Alternately, a water reservoir can be employed as the heat exchanger. When necessary, the heat transfer fluid is conducted through the de-icing conduit array positioned immediately beneath the surface to be de-iced. The amount of heat transfer fluid directed to the de-icing array can be regulated, and in warmer seasons it can be isolated altogether from the rest of the system. The air conditioning system may further include a system which heats or cools the inside of the structure, such as a heat pump, in addition to the refrigeration equipment.