Geothermal Alternatives: Technology for Our Times

Geothermal systems – also referred as ground source heat and cooling pumps – are an environment-friendly alternative to traditional methods used for heating homes and businesses. With the potential to help users realize energy-conscious goals and long-term cost efficiencies, geothermal-based systems are drawing increased interest among consumers. While particulars on how geothermal systems work are somewhat complex, and we'll be happy to provide more information when you contact us. Meantime, Executive Heating & Cooling offers an overview for readers and customers:

Heat pumps from ground sources are constructed using tubing that is buried underneath your property. This specialized tubing is filled with an antifreeze fluid that circulates through all of the piping. During the winter, this fluid attracts heat from the relatively warm earth (heat source) underground and brings it into your home – providing heat. During the summer, the fluid attracts heat from your home and discharges it into the relatively cooler earth (heat sink) – to provide cooling.

A major advantage of geothermal-based systems is that they actually combine three major systems into one: heating, cooling and some capabilities for water heating. Other advantages and disadvantages to consider include:

Advantages:

  • Can result in extremely low energy bills. Studies show an approximate 50% savings in energy bills can be realized over conventional heating and cooling systems.
  • Geothermal is environmentally friendly and possibly safer as well. Systems use less electricity to run and do not use any types of fossil fuels. Fossil fuels employed by traditional methods cause combustion, which produces and releases carbon monoxide and other possible-hazard gases, contributing to pollution.
  • Low maintenance requirements involved. This is especially true when a closed-loop system is installed, versus the open-loop type. Properly designed and installed geothermal heat pump systems generally require checking and cleaning only at extended intervals.
  • Year-round comfort is provided through geothermal applications/installations. Most important to consider, geothermal systems don't require installation of a furnace or an air conditioner. A properly installed geothermal heat pump system eliminates the expense and upkeep of these HVAC components and can accomplish both tasks.

Disadvantages:

  • While initially somewhat expensive to install, reductions in energy use and subsequent cost efficiencies may gain back outlay expense in a relatively short time. Depending on the type and extent of system design/installation chosen, reports indicate that cost outlays for geothermal systems – which are ultimately “self-sufficient”– may be recouped in just a matter of a few years. This of course depends on other factors like the ranges of energy prices for different parts of the country and also on what type of traditional method (i.e., energy costs) the geothermal system was chosen to replace.
  • Geo systems may have a tendency to work better in some areas of the country than others. If you are considering a geothermal alternative, we can help you research the information you need to make an educated decision.

Executive Heating & Cooling has installed several geothermal applications for satisfied customers who now enjoy the cost-savings and convenience of going geothermal. Contact our staff and we will assist you in learning more about benefits of applying geothermal technology to your home, commercial or industrial situation.