In Part I of this series, we mentioned that because the majority of homes in our area use forced warm air heating systems and use either natural gas or electricity (heat pumps) as the fuel of choice, we would concentrate on them. However, there is one notable exception that is becoming more prominent as fuel prices escalate and people become more cognizant of pollution and global warming. It is the use of geothermal energy…that is, using the earth to heat and cool your home.

    This simple technology that in winter draws heat from the ground and transfers it to your home and in summer, extracts heat from your home and transfers it to the ground, consists of a heat pump, NOT connected to an outside condenser but connected to a series of small-diameter pipes buried underground, and a water solution circulating through the pipes to carry the heat between the ground and the heat pump.

     We should state in the beginning, that while geothermal systems may be the epitome of HVAC systems (just the thought of taking the heat out of the earth in the winter heat mode, and putting the heat back into the earth in summer cooling mode, thereby eliminating the need to burn any fossil fuels, sparks the imagination), they are not for everyone. Let’s look at the disadvantages first:

     Disadvantages: We’ve said it before, and will repeat it again; there are no perfect HVAC systems. If there were, everyone would want the perfect system and there would be no need for any other. There are potentially 2 disadvantages for geothermal systems…both have to do with connecting to the earth.

     First, because of the drilling costs, geothermal units initial costs tend to be $4000-$6000 higher than conventional systems. However, a U.S tax credit is currently (2009) available to help offset this additional cost when geothermal equipment is installed as required. Coupled with the substantial savings that this high efficiency equipment produces, the additional installation costs are recovered comparatively quickly.

     Secondly, land area to enable drilling (for close loop systems) and ground water (for open loop systems) must be available. While these things rarely present a problem in new construction, sometimes existing houses can be more difficult.

     Even when the higher initial installation costs are taken into consideration, the substantial reduction in energy costs plus the low operating and maintenance costs of geothermal systems make it a very worthwhile investment. In new construction i.e., the monthly energy savings typically exceed the increased mortgage payments. Therefore, cash flow can be positive from the start.

     According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, geothermal systems average 40 percent greater efficiency than air-source heat pumps, 48 percent better than natural gas furnaces and 75 percent better than oil furnaces.

     Now let’s look at the many Advantages of Geothermal Heating and Cooling:

	•	A Major Advantage: Four Times the Efficiency: A Geothermal system uses the earth's thermal properties in conjunction with electricity to provide unprecedented efficiency. For every unit of electricity the system uses, it provides four units of heating energy, giving a geothermal system a 400 percent efficiency rating, on average. These numbers can translate into substantial savings on your utility bills year-round.
	•	The Geothermal Advantage: When you invest in a Geothermal system, you can be assured that you're receiving the highest-quality, best-performing heating and cooling system available. Here are some of the benefits of Geothermal ownership:
	•	Lower Operating Costs: A Geothermal system operates more efficiently than ordinary heating and air conditioning systems - 30 to 60 percent more efficiently, in most cases.
	•	Comfort: Because a Geothermal system uses the relatively stable temperature of the earth as an energy source, you're assured of constant, even winter heating and better humidity control in summer.
	•	Safety: With a Geothermal system, there are no flames, no flues and no odors. There's no danger of combustion, fire or carbon monoxide either. What you get is safe, reliable operation year after year.
	•	Clean Operation: A Geothermal system minimizes environmental threats linked to fossil-fuel burning, including acid rain, air pollution and the greenhouse effect.
	•	Quiet Operation: A Geothermal system is designed and manufactured to be exceptionally quiet. It'll run at least as quietly as your refrigerator or freezer.
	•	Flexibility: A Geothermal system provides heating, central air conditioning and hot water, all from the same compact unit.
	•	Economical Water Heating: Water heating can be a significant energy expense. A Geothermal system can reduce the high cost of water heating by as much as 66 percent.

     Don’t miss the next installment of “Climatemakers’ Circle of Comfort”. In the meantime, if you need more information on geothermal systems or any other questions pertaining to HVAC systems or service, visit our 250+ page website (www.climatemakers.com) or call (757.468.5800) or email (comfort@climatemakers.com) to contact one of our very knowledgeable design representatives. There is no obligation, of course.

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