Geothermal is currently a big buzz word, but actually, geothermal heat pumps have been in use since the 1940s. So what is geothermal? To simplify its explanation, the ground acts as a huge solar battery that soaks up the sun’s energy and stores it as heat. Geothermal technology takes advantage of that stored heat utilizing the earth’s constant 55ºF temperature. To simplify it even more, a geothermal HVAC system transfers the stored energy from the ground to heat and cool your home.
By tapping this steady flow of heat from the earth in the winter, and displacing heat in the earth in the summer, a geothermal heat pump can save homeowners 40% to 70% in heating costs and 50% to 60% in cooling costs compared to conventional systems.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), geothermal systems are “the most energy-efficient, environmentally clean and cost-effective space conditioning systems available today.”
A fossil fuel furnace may be 80% to 95% efficient, traditional heat pumps range from 200% to 300%, while a geothermal heat pump is 500% efficient. Also, this does not take into account the benefit of the free hot water during the summer months from a geothermal system, which can save a homeowner around 60% to 80% on a water-heating bill.
Geothermal heating and cooling systems not only save money on energy bills, but also help create a better world. Through the use of sustainable energy sources, the warmth of the earth by the sun, they conserve our planet’s non-renewable reserves of fossil fuels.
Having a geothermal system installed is more expensive than the typical high-efficiency HVAC system, however, with current federal tax credits, state financial incentives, manufacturer rebates and energy savings, within a few years it will offset those costs. Plus, there is less maintenance required because there are no condensers, burners or chimneys to clean compared to conventional HVAC systems. The estimated system life for inside components is 25 years and 50 years or more for the outside ground loop.
Keeping money in our pockets and being responsible stewards of the earth make geothermal an option everyone should consider.
We had our speak, what do you think?
