“Green living” is a growing trend across the nation. Homeowners are looking to take proactive steps to reduce their impact on the environment and to combat the rising cost of household utilities at the same time. Initiatives like energy efficient lighting, solar power, and water conservation are a big part of new home construction and are increasingly attractive upgrades for existing homeowners.One of the most popular environmentally and energy conscious improvements is geothermal heating. Geothermal heating is a process that uses the natural heat energy within the earth's surface to heat or cool a building. Long considered prohibitively expensive, the fact is that this eco-friendly approach to home heating is becoming more and more affordable while still offering a clean, natural source of heat. HVAC manufacturers are producing more affordable geothermal heating units and systems than ever before. If you think it might be time to take a closer look at geothermal heating for your home, here are some things you should know.
1. Geothermal heating is more popular than you think. Many of us still consider “going green” a passing fad, but the fact is that eco-friendly home improvements are gaining mainstream popularity every day. Geothermal heating is leading the way on this front, as many experts estimate that the number of units installed in American homes each year is close to 50,000.
2. You can afford geothermal heating. Yes, geothermal heating units cost more to install than traditional HVAC systems. The truth is, though, that geothermal units pay for themselves in a short period of time—just under 10 years, according to some estimates—and the energy savings you’ll see makes them a cheaper option in the long run. An added bonus: Eco-friendly home upgrades are a major selling point for many potential buyers so making these improvements now could get you an attractive return on your investment when it comes time to sell your home.
3. Geothermal heat is a long-term solution. The interior components of most geothermal systems will last at least 20 years, while the outdoor and underground mechanisms will last nearly twice as long. Good luck finding a furnace that will last 50 years!
4. Geothermal heat pumps are not just for heating. Not only do geothermal systems heat your home with clean, renewable energy but they can also cool it, too. The same ductwork that carries warm air through your house can also convey cool air with just the flick of a switch. There are even some geothermal units that can heat your hot water, too.
5. It’s the perfect time to consider geothermal heating. Geothermal heating is one of the most desirable options for home heating right now. The systems currently on the market are some of the most affordable, energy-efficient, and easiest to install. What’s more, the federal government is offering tax incentives to homeowners who install them. In some cases, those credits add up to as much as $2,000. Even if you installed a geothermal system a year or two ago, you may still be eligible for tax credits if your unit meets the government’s Energy Star qualifications. Many state governments are also offering attractive tax incentives to homeowners who replace their older heating units with new geothermal systems.
For More Information About Geothermal Heating…
Contact Horizon Services and schedule a FREE, no-obligation In-Home Energy Analysis. Horizon’s experienced comfort consultants will prepare a detailed assesment of your home and heating requirements and tell you if geothermal heating is a viable option for your house.
