Geothermal FAQ’s – Could a System Be Right for You?

As our population grows and the earth’s resources are strained like never before, many people have questions about geothermal systems but are not sure about some very fundamental concerns.  Hopefully, this brief article can open your eyes to the potential of geothermal system.

How does geothermal work?

The basic principle is that a geothermal heat pump extracts heat from the earth during the winter and pipes into your home.   This processed is reversed during the summer.  The heat pump pulls the heat from your house and pumps it into the earth.  This process is similar to your refrigerator.  If you reach behind it you will feel a lot of heat.  This heat has been removed from inside the refrigerator and pumped to the outside air.

The heart of a geothermal unit is the system of pipes buried underground to facilitate this heat exchange.

Are there benefits to using geothermal energy?

Yes.  Geothermal energy is clean.  There is no need for fossil fuels – which reduces our dependence on foreign oil. It is also a renewable resource like solar or wind.

Plus, it is a very cool conversation piece for visitors!

Am I in an area where geothermal can be used?

Unless you live in a very odd environment like the arctic, then you are almost certainly in area where a geothermal heat pump can be unitized productively.  That said, there may be local consideration that prevent the installation.  An installer would have to evaluate your specific site.  

How long does a geothermal system last?

Geothermal heat pumps are very durable. Since the system does not have elaborate complicated parts and is based on a simple principle, your system should last many, many decades.

Would my geothermal system be loud?

Fortunately geothermal systems are very quiet unlike a standard HVAC system.

Will I save money using geothermal?

Yes!  It is not uncommon to have heating bills cut by 20% – 50%.  However, you will need to remain in your home for several years to recoup the installation costs in annual savings. If you plan on moving soon, a geothermal unit is probably does not make sense from an economic prospective.  In general, it will take five to ten years to recoup the installation cost.

There is much more to a geothermal system but these answers should help you get started thinking about whether a system is right for you.  The environment might just say “Thank You!”

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