Geothermal heat pumps:
What are the major benefits?
Q: How efficient is a geothermal heat pump?
A: They are more than three times as efficient as the most efficient
fossil fuel furnace. Instead of burning a combustible fuel to make heat,
they simply move heat that already exists. By doing that, they provide
three units of energy for every one unit us- ed to power the heat-pump
system.
Q: What does a system like this cost?
A: A system for the typical home will cost more than if you bought a
separate furnace and central air-conditioning system. But you wouldn't
really be comparing apples to apples. To get an accurate comparison of
costs you need to consider the following:
 | Payback, or how long it takes to recover the
difference in costs between the two systems using energy savings.
Payback for most geothermal heat-pump systems runs two to six years. |
| Energy efficiency of the two systems. To get an
accurate picture, make sure efficiency claims are substantiated. Your
lifestyle and how well your home is insulated affect how economical a
system will be. |
| Total operating savings from heating, cooling and
domestic hot water must be combined to get an accurate picture of
total energy savings. |
| Energy costs and availability, both present and
future. |
| Maintenance costs and system reliability. |
| System lifespan. |
Q: What about comfort?
A: A geothermal heat pump system moves warm air (90 degrees - 105 degrees)
throughout your home via a standard duct network. Typically, a very even
comfort level is found throughout the home. This is because the warm air
is moved in slightly higher volumes and, therefore, saturates the home
with warmth more evenly. This helps even out hot or cold spots and
eliminates the cold air blast common with fossil fuel furnaces.
It's also a great comfort to know that you've reduced
your energy consumption while using an inexhaustible energy source - the
earth.
Q: Can I get a tax credit for installing this system?
A: It depends on where you live. Some states and provinces do have tax
credits for installing geothermal systems. Check with your electric
utility, Department of Commerce or Ministry of Revenue for further
details.
Q: Which system is best, open- or closed-loop?
A: The net results in operating cost and efficiency are virtually the
same. Which system to choose depends mainly on whether you have an
adequate groundwater supply and means of disposal. If you do, an open loop
can be used very effectively. If not, either a horizontal or vertical
closed-loop system is your best choice.
Over a period of years, a closed-loop system will
require less maintenance because it's sealed and pressurized, eliminating
the possible build-up of minerals or iron deposits.
JC HEATING & COOLING
Geothermal Heating Systems
