Benefits of Geothermal

Those within the industry claim that converting from oil or electricity to geothermal will cut heating costs by as much as 70 percent.

Surveys of geothermal industry buyers show a 95 percent satisfaction rate. Over the long term, the savings only get better.

The US Department of Energy also lists these benefits of geothermal heating systems:

• Cost Effective

  On average, a geothermal heat pump system costs about $2,500 per ton of capacity, or roughly $7,500 for a 3-ton unit (typical residential size). In comparison, other systems would cost about $4,000 with air conditioning. When included in the mortgage, the homeowner has a positive cash flow from the beginning. For example, the extra $3,500 might add $30 per month to a monthly mortgage payment. The energy cost savings will easily exceed this added amount over the course of the year.

  On a retrofit, geothermal energy's high efficiency typically means much lower utility bills, allowing the investment to be recouped in two to ten years. In addition, some utility companies have financing packages that make the purchase of a geothermal system even less expensive. Still others provide special rates for homes with geothermal systems.

• Durability

  Because they use fewer mechanical components, and because those components are sheltered from the elements, leaves, dirt, and possible vandalism, geothermal heat pumps are durable and highly reliable. The underground piping used in the system often has 25- to 50- year warranties, and geothermal heat pumps typically last 20 years or more.

• Low Maintenance

  Geothermal heat pump systems have fewer maintenance requirements than most other systems. When properly installed, the underground components are virtually worry-free. The components in the living space are easily accessible, which increases the convenience factor and helps ensure that the upkeep is done on a timely basis.

• Year-Round Comfort

  Like typical forced-air furnace or central air-conditioning system, a geothermal system uses ductwork. A two-speed geothermal heat pump is so quiet inside a house that users do not know it is operating: there are no telltale blasts of cold or hot air, depending on whether it's the heating or cooling season.

  Geothermal heat pumps also improve humidity control naturally.

• Quiet Operation

  Geothermal heat pumps use no outside condensing units (as you get with conventional air conditioners), so there's no noise or humming to bother either you or your neighbors.

See an introduction to ground source heat pumps or types of geothermal heat pumps.