Most homeowners have a conventional gas furnace and air conditioner system installed to heat and cool their home. But did you know that you can heat and cool your home using your yard? In this blog post, we will be sharing everything you need to know about geothermal heating and cooling systems — what geothermal is, how it works and what the benefits are.
What is Geothermal Heating and Cooling?
A geothermal heat pump system uses free, renewable energy by moving the earth’s heat from underground pipes to a geothermal unit inside your home. The collected heat is distributed through the ductwork to heat your home and can be used to preheat the water going into your hot water heater. To cool your home, the process is reversed: The warm air in your home is collected and stored in the ground. This is an energy-efficient method because it’s easier to move heat than to create heat.
How Does Geothermal Work?
The earth maintains a constant, moderate temperature just below the surface year-round. A geothermal system uses plastic loops or pipes that are installed underground. These loops contain an environmentally safe fluid that helps move heat. Unlike furnaces and conventional heat pumps, a geothermal system is powered 100% by electricity.
In the winter, the fluid in the loops absorbs the heat from the ground. It is then circulated into an indoor heat pump, where the heat is concentrated and then distributed throughout your home via the existing ductwork.
During the summer, indoor heat and humidity are extracted via the ductwork. Then the heat is concentrated and directed to the water heater or circulated back into the ground via the loops. The heat in the loop is absorbed into the ground, and the cool, dehumidified air that remains is distributed throughout your home.
What Are The Benefits of a Geothermal Heating and Cooling System?
Geothermal systems have become a popular choice for new construction homes, but they are also a great option for existing homes. There are several benefits to installing a geothermal heat pump system in your home:
- Geothermal systems are five times more efficient than conventional systems. Homeowners can save up to 60% in monthly utility costs.
- They provide a constant, precise temperature and humidity control. Unlike a conventional furnace, a geothermal system does not kick on and off trying to maintain the desired temperature.
- They cool 20%–40% more efficiently than other cooling systems.
- They heat 50%–70% more efficiently than other heating systems.
- Geothermal systems often qualify for state and federal energy tax credits plus utility rebates. There is currently a 26% federal tax credit.
Geothermal Heating and Cooling Costs
Geothermal systems can be expensive to install, and the installation cost varies based on many factors (geography, ground composition, size of home, equipment chosen, etc.). However, the system will pay for itself in about five to seven years due to the monthly savings on utility costs.
Bell Brothers is recognized as one of the best in geothermal expertise, overall performance and customer service in Central Iowa. We’re certified through the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association.
To learn more about geothermal heating and cooling systems, contact us online or give us a call at 515-244-8911. We’d love to help you determine whether a geothermal system is right for you.
