Geothermal energy has real potential as a source of renewable energy, especially considering that ground-source heat pumps use 75% less energy than traditional heating and cooling systems.
Are you considering installing a geothermal heat pump at home? Perhaps you need to know more about this type of heating and cooling system before making the investment. If so, here are a few major benefits of going with geothermal for your Mt. Vernon residence.
1. More Environmentally Friendly
Currently, renewable energy—such as geothermal—accounts for around 20% of electricity generated in the United States. As more people and companies continue to invest in green energy and as costs to invest in it go down, that percentage continues to rise.
Geothermal energy is a type of heat energy that comes from the ground. These systems are powered by reservoirs of hot water below the earth’s surface. Wells might only be a few feet deep, or they could go for miles.
Geothermal heat pumps have actually been used since the 1940s as a way to heat and cool a home.
If you’re looking for a way to reduce your impact on the planet, geothermal heating is a great option. Instead of using a fuel source, a geothermal heat pump simply transfers the heat from the ground. As a result, you cut down on carbon emissions.
2. Quieter Operation
A geothermal heat pump doesn’t use an outdoor condensing unit. Therefore, there’s less noise pollution compared to a traditional heating and cooling system.
When your heat or air conditioning system kicks on, it can create noise that’s disruptive in your daily life, especially as you’re trying to watch TV.
One of the biggest advantages of geothermal heat pumps is that they offer quieter operation. You’ll really notice the difference after installation.
3. Longer System Lifespan
The average lifespan of an HVAC system is anywhere from 10-25 years, depending on how well its maintained and other factors. On the other hand, the outdoor parts of a geothermal heat pump can last up to 50 years, while internal components last around 25 years.
If you plan on staying in your home for a long time, a geothermal heat system is an excellent investment that pays for itself with efficiency and durability.
4. Better Indoor Air Quality
Americans spend around 90% of their time inside on average.
One problem with traditional heating and cooling systems is the cycle of outdoor air that exposes you to pollutants. According to the EPA, concentrations of certain pollutants can be between 2-5 times higher inside compared to outdoors.
For some people, such as those with allergies or asthma, that can cause health problems. Effects on health include:
- Eye, ears, and nose irritation
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Asthma attacks
Health effects can be even more severe. Radon, a known human carcinogen, is a pollutant that can cause lung cancer.
When you choose green energy and geothermal heat pumps, you’re not as exposed to those outdoor pollutants. Additionally, geothermal heat pumps provide optimal dehumidification and air purification.
5. Fewer Maintenance Costs
Geothermal heat pumps don’t use fans or compressors, which can mean fewer repairs and less maintenance overall. Traditional heating and cooling systems require regular tune-ups to keep them in peak condition. You should schedule regular maintenance at least once a year, allowing a technician to come and look for any issues within your system.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance alternative, geothermal is the way to go.
6. Tax Credits
The federal Inflation Reduction Act gives homeowners rebates and tax credits for installing a geothermal heat pump.
Currently, the residential clean energy credit for geothermal heat pumps has been extended through 2035. Heat pumps installed from Jan. 1, 2022 until the end of 2032 may claim 30% of installation costs. That percentage drops each year, so it pays to install early.
Rebates are also available to those who qualify, saving homeowners even more.
To learn more about installation costs, energy efficiency, possible rebates, and incentives, contact your installer.
7. Efficient and Reliable
Geothermal heat pumps are incredibly efficient. Despite the higher installation costs upfront, geothermal heat pumps pay for themselves over time. It’s 50 to 70% more efficient than other heating systems and 20 to 40% more efficient than air conditioners.
That increased efficiency means you use less energy to achieve the perfect temperature inside, which is better for your wallet and for the environment.
Another benefit is a positive cash flow. Your savings in this area usually pays for the installation and even exceeds the cost of the unit in a few years.
You’ll come to rely on your heat pump to provide your family with a comfortable home year-round.
8. Financing Options Are Available
It’s true that installing a geothermal heat pump is no small investment. However, the system pays for itself in a few years. On top of that, there are also financing options available to make paying for a system easier.
Talk to your installer about any financing options open to you. Breaking down the cost into smaller payments means you can enjoy the benefits of a system sooner without ruining your budget.
Don’t forget that you can also save through rebate options and tax credits. Do your research and talk to your installer to make the most of your investment.
Experience the Benefits of a Geothermal Heat Pump
As you can see, there are many advantages to installing a geothermal heat pump in your Mt. Vernon home. From cleaner energy to higher efficiency, there are plenty of reasons to make the switch.
Are you interested in learning more? Here at Cosby Heating and Cooling, we’re your geothermal heat pump experts. We specialize in geothermal HVAC services and products.
Contact us to get a free quote or schedule a consultation.
