Newport mansion installing new geothermal system

NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) — The Preservation Society of Newport County will install a geothermal system at Chateau-sur-Mer to curb reliance on oil and to provide temperature and humidity control.

21 425-foot deep wells are being dug on the south side of the mansion as part of the system.

Fluid will be carried by underground pipes that will pick up the constant underground temperature of 50 degrees and use it throughout the house to provide heat in the winter and cool air in the summer.

The new system is expected to reduce the mansion’s dependence on oil by 80 percent and will also maintain steady humidity levels.

This will be integral in protecting the house’s interior contents such as wood, paper, paintings, leather and textiles.

Similar systems have already been installed at Chepstow and the Berwind-Stautberg Scholars Center at The Elms and The Breakers.

Download the ABC6 Providence NOW app