Geothermal heating and cooling is a new concept to many, which is why we’ve compiled this beginner’s guide. Consider it a quick-start to geothermal and how it works in a residential setting.
With geothermal, you stand to save money, have more consistent heating and cooling, and improve the overall comfort in your home. If you’re curious about geothermal heating and cooling in Sussex County, DE, here’s what you need to know.
First, What Is Geothermal Heating and Cooling?
Geothermal heating and cooling uses the Earth’s natural heat to warm your home, and uses your home’s warm air during summer months to cool your home.
Home geothermal systems can come in four different variations depending on what makes the most sense for the region you live in. They include:
- Vertical Loop Systems: These are used for commercial purposes or in large-scale buildings, though they may be available for some homes.
- Pond or Lake Loop Systems: Though uncommon, if you have a pond or lake on your property, these can be attractive options.
- Well Water Loop Systems: Just as you would expect, they use well water to heat and cool your home.
- Horizontal Loop Systems: These are the most common for home use and the most cost-effective option in most cases.
Since horizontal ground loop systems work exceptionally well for home use, we’ll be discussing that system in-depth.
How Ground Loop Systems Work
Ground loop systems use an average of 400 to 600 square feet of underground space. Technicians will dig trenches in your yard, lay the necessary pipes, and connect all components to create a closed loop system.
Geothermal uses the principle of heat transfer to achieve both heating and cooling for your home. During summer months, it takes heat from your home and pumps it into the ground. During winter months, it pumps the earth-heated water from the ground through your system to provide warm air.
Why Geothermal Saves You Money
Geothermal heat pumps last for longer than traditional HVAC systems. While annual maintenance is still required to maintain proper operation and energy efficiency, geothermal systems don’t need to be replaced as often as furnaces or air conditioners.
Depending on your geothermal energy system rating and how efficient your specific unit is, you can use up to 50% less electricity to run a geothermal heating and energy system compare to a traditional HVAC system. On the low end, you’ll see around 25% less electricity usage.
Look at your energy bills and imagine what you could do if they were sliced in half every year. Your geothermal system begins to pay for itself every single month that you don’t succumb to higher energy bills.
It’s Time to Consider Geothermal Heating and Cooling for Your Home
Geothermal heating and cooling isn’t for everyone, but if it sounds like something you’re interested in, contact us today to learn more about the installation process. Geothermal could be the heating and cooling option your home has always needed, and there’s only one way to find out.
Contact us today to install or repair your geothermal heating and cooling system as soon as possible.