Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Facts about geothermal systems

What is geothermal energy?  Geothermal energy is produced from heat stored in the earth and can be extracted and used to heat homes and to produce electricity.

How does it work?  Geothermal units use a system of loops buried deep in the ground that utilize the constant temperature of the ground to heat and cool your home through energy exchange.

In the colder months, the water in the underground loops absorbs heat from the earth and transfers it to the geothermal unit.  From there, it is compressed to a higher temperature and sent as warm air to heat your home.

In the summer, the process is reversed and the loop system siphons heat from your home through the loops and back into the earth.

How can a geothermal system help lower your energy costs?  “With home heating oil reaching $5.00 a gallon, it’s not uncommon for a family in the northern parts of the country to spend $4,000 or more heating their homes during the cold winter season. In the warmer southern areas, electricity bills of $300-$400 a month are not unusual as families battle the heat with inefficient air conditioning systems.”*

Geothermal energy does not use fossil fuels to operate and also uses very little electricity.  The dramatic decrease in electricity consumption can provide you with up to 55-70% savings on your heating and cooling bills.  In addition, a geothermal system produces hot water which can reduce your cost for hot water use up to 60%!

The life expectancy of a geothermal system is much longer (20-25 years) than a standard HVAC system (12-15 years) when properly maintained. While it may cost more on the initial installation, a geothermal system pays for itself in the first few years of operation with the energy savings you will accrue.

How much does a geothermal system cost?  The average cost of a geothermal system varies due to many factors.  However, there are federal and state tax credits (www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm) for those who purchase geothermal systems.

How long does it take for a geothermal system to pay for itself?  It all depends on how you are currently heating your home.  If you are using natural gas, it can take 5-10 years.  If you are using propane, that time is reduced to 2-5 years!

Call us for a quote on replacing your old system with a geothermal system. And be sure to ask us about financing options!

918.610.7300

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