Many people have chosen to install geothermal heat pumps on their properties, and this idea is becoming more popular. If you are in the market for a new heating and cooling solution, you may consider looking at the pros and cons of geothermal energy.

The Benefits of Geothermal Energy

Using geothermal energy allows you to take advantage of a sustainable resource. Geothermal heat pumps, also known as ground-source heat pumps, have indoor units as well as outdoor components and piping that runs underneath the ground. In the winter when you need heat in your home, the refrigerant in that piping absorbs the heat from the ground. It brings the heat into your home, where it can release it.

With this design, a geothermal heat pump doesn’t have to consume any fossil fuels. It doesn’t even have to make its own heat like a traditional heater. Instead, it uses the heat energy that’s already found in the ground. Since this type of heating system moves heat around rather than making it, it consumes much less energy than a traditional heater. You’ll be able to save money on your energy bills in the winter when you get a geothermal heat pump. You might also qualify for tax credits as some municipalities have policies in place to encourage the use of geothermal heat pumps.

Another benefit to using a geothermal heat pump is that it can be used throughout the year. A major difference between heat pumps and heaters and air conditioners is that heat pumps can function as air conditioners and heaters. Instead of getting two systems, you only deal with one system. This can make installation and maintenance more convenient and straightforward.

When a geothermal heat pump switches to cooling mode, it’s able to absorb heat from your home. The refrigerant takes that heat with it as it travels outside, and it’s able to release the heat under the ground. Since the ground stays a steady temperature, no matter what the air temperature is like, it’ll readily accept that heat in the summer.

One other factor has to do with noise. Geothermal heat pumps can work quietly, and they don’t have any outdoor units that would create noise. In contrast, the hum of an AC’s outdoor unit can be a nuisance when you’re trying to enjoy the fresh air.

Drawbacks of Geothermal Energy

The cost of installing a geothermal heat pump is not cheap. The initial investment needed can work against it. However, financing may be available to help with the costs, and long-term savings in utility bills will have to be factored into consideration.

The installation can alter your landscaping. If you get a horizontal set of piping, the installers will have to dig up a lot of your yard to lay the pipes. If you get a vertical set of piping, the footprint will be decreased. Still, though, heavy machinery will need to be brought in, and major work in your yard will need to get completed.

A particular property might not even be suited for a geothermal heat pump. It might not be feasible to put in a ground-source heat pump system in extremely rocky soil, for instance. If you have a very small lot, a work team might not have enough space to put in the piping system.

It’s also important to note that some types of geothermal heat pumps might not work as well when the outside temperature is very low. Older models might not be able to keep up with heating demands in this case. The industry has been working hard to address this problem, and many newer models come with variable-speed compressors that can better adjust to increased demand for heat in cold climates.

Come to Us for Help

At R.J. Groner Inc., our history of service in the HVAC field goes back to 1949. Before that, our founder served in World War II. The business has been passed on from generation to generation, and we’re proud to still be locally owned and operated. We’ve worked hard to ensure that our technicians have the skills and knowledge it takes to help our customers. We can be a trusted resource if you have any questions related to geothermal heat pumps in Stroudsburg. We also work with ductless ACs, air conditioners, heaters, water heaters, boilers, sump pumps, water filters, and other components related to HVAC systems and plumbing. Contact R.J. Groner Inc. to learn more about our services.

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