One of the most energy-efficient and comfortable ways to heat and cool your home is with a geothermal heat pump (GHP). Some of the most common geothermal myths surround issues such as these system’s installation, performance, longevity and cost. The most common myths include:
- They require a large lot. A GHP uses an underground loop field that harvests heat for winter heating and deposits heat energy when in cooling mode. Originally, GHPs did require a lot large enough for the loop field to be dug horizontally. New installation techniques can employ a vertical loop field, which requires much less land.
- They aren’t a renewable form of heating. A GHP represents one of the most renewable ways to condition your home. It uses one-fifth the amount of energy that a conventional system does because it relies on the stored solar energy underground. The loop field is buried below the frost line, where temperatures are stable and moderate throughout the year. The system never has to deal with the temperature extremes that occur above ground, keeping your conditioning costs as low as possible.
- They don’t last. Of all the geothermal myths, this is the least true. Geothermal systems have an exceptionally long lifespan. The underground loop field can last 50 years and more, while the indoor heat pump may reach 25 years as long as it receives the maintenance it requires.
- They’re too costly. While the upfront costs associated with GHPs are higher than other HVAC systems, their efficiency helps homeowners recover their costs over time, most of which are associated with installation. The federal government is offering a tax credit to offset the cost of the entire system that’s good through the end of December 2016. Homeowners installing a qualifying geothermal system can claim a 30 percent tax credit on the cost of the system, a benefit that’s good through 2016.
- They’re noisy. A GHP doesn’t use an outdoor condenser, eliminating yard noise. The indoor components run so quietly, it’s hard to detect when they’re running.
To clarify other geothermal myths you may have, please contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services, providing trusted HVAC services for Dayton area homeowners since 1978.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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