8 Benefits of a Geothermal Heating & Cooling System

The term “clean energy” typically brings to mind solar and wind power, but there is another source of highly efficient clean energy right under your feet. Geothermal heat pumps provide homes with heating and cooling as well as hot water, using a small amount of electricity to harness the abundant and stable energy stored naturally in the earth.

Here are 8 important advantages of geothermal systems:

1. Highly energy efficient

Geothermal systems take advantage of the fact that the ground 50 feet or more below the surface remains a constant 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit — all day long and all year long, regardless of the temperature above ground. This means that instead of using energy to heat, cool and circulate the air in your home, energy is only used to transfer heat to your home in winter and from your home in summer. While the most energy-efficient conventional systems can be up to 95% efficient, geothermal systems have efficiency ratings of 300-500%! Geothermal heat pumps may be available for a  tax credit (check with your HVAC professional).

2. Reduced utility bills

Greater energy efficiency translates to lower energy bills each month. Geothermal systems can save up to 70% on utility bills for heating, cooling and hot water, compared to conventional systems.

3. Superior comfort

Geothermal heat pumps provide exceptional comfort throughout the year. They deliver consistent heat during the cold months without the sudden blasts of hot air associated with gas furnaces. The same goes for cool air in the summer. An added benefit is that the cooled air is naturally dehumidified.

4. Remarkably quiet

With no outside condenser unit, geothermal heat pumps function without generating noise outdoors. Geothermal heat pumps are designed for quiet operation, so you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere in and around your home.

5. No open flame, no fumes or odors

Unlike conventional HVAC systems, geothermal systems do not use combustible fuels such as natural gas, propane or oil. There are no pilot lights (open flames), no fumes or odors and no carbon monoxide emissions.

6. Free hot water

The heat reclaimed from geothermal systems during operation for both heating and cooling can easily be captured and used to heat the water for your home, reducing the water heating cost of a four-person household by 50 to 60 percent.

7. Longer lifespan, less maintenance

The same equipment is used for both heating and cooling, and is much simpler than either a furnace or air conditioner. With fewer moving parts to wear out and no outdoor unit that is susceptible to weather, precipitation, debris, extreme temperatures and vandalism, geothermal systems are highly reliable and simple to maintain. The underground loop system — a one-time installation — lasts 50-100 years, and the interior heat pump lasts 20-25 years (twice as long as a conventional system).

8. Environmentally sound technology

As mentioned above, geothermal systems use no fossil fuels and very little electricity, and they emit no greenhouse gases.

Geothermal systems can be installed during construction or retrofitted for existing homes. For proper sizing and Installation, choose a knowledgeable, experienced, quality contractor.

Considering geothermal for your Highlands Ranch or Denver Metro Area home? Contact Indoor Air Quality today to learn more.