Efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to HVAC systems. Homeowners in Asheville, North Carolina, want reliable heating and cooling that doesn’t rack up high monthly costs. Geothermal HVAC systems offer efficient and cost-effective climate control using the stable ground temperature. Learn how geothermal heating and cooling works and about its benefits to decide if it’s the right fit for your home.
Eco-Friendly
Ground-sourced energy gets rid of reliance on fossil fuels to heat the home. As water is pumped through underground pipes, it takes heat from the earth and transfers it into warm air distributed throughout the house.
During warmer weather, a geothermal HVAC system takes in the heat from the house and moves it into the underground pipe system or loop. The cooler ground absorbs the heat and returns cool water into the system, providing natural air conditioning to the home. Both of these processes require less than half the energy output of traditional systems.
Stability
Average geothermal systems last at least 20 years, and service technicians install them underground and indoors. Traditional air conditioning units sit outside the home, where they collect dirt and are susceptible to damage from storms, branches and critters. The underground piping and heat pumps are all covered by warranties, and we will work to ensure that your system enjoys a long lifespan.
Because air isn’t pulled into the geothermal system from outside, airborne particles are less of a threat to the health of the system. Filtration systems don’t have to work as hard to keep your indoor air clean, either.
Efficiency
Instead of creating the cool or warm air, geothermal systems take the energy from the earth. Air-intake HVAC systems pull in hot or cold air from outside, either warming it up or cooling it down before pushing it through the ducts and vents throughout the home. If you go just a few feet below the earth’s surface, the ground remains approximately 50 degrees. It doesn’t matter the climate or season.
Since the ground temperature remains so consistent, geothermal heat pumps use less energy to provide warm or cool air in the home. Studies show that these systems are two times more efficient than the best air conditioners and furnaces on the market.
Traditional systems turn off and on throughout the day, depending on the thermostat setting. If the temperature is set to 70 degrees, the entire system turns off once it reaches that number. It turns back on when the air dips below or rises above the setting. This constant starting uses a lot of energy. Geothermal systems use a lot less.
Savings
Many homeowners expect higher energy costs during the summer and winter due to extreme temperatures. The colder or hotter it is outside, the harder that traditional HVAC systems have to work to provide a comfortable indoor climate. Geothermal systems provide consistent costs throughout the year. The system doesn’t have to expel any additional energy. Those jaw-dropping energy bills will become a thing of the past.
While the installation of a geothermal HVAC system can cost more upfront, it pays for itself after about two years of lower utility costs. Regular maintenance will ensure a long-lasting system with lifelong savings.
If you decide that a geothermal HVAC system is right for you, don’t forget to register for the Federal tax credit. It’s offered to homes using eco-friendly systems.
Peace and Quiet
Traditional systems can add to noise pollution throughout your home. Your home will become sound quieter when you switch to a geothermal system. You won’t hear the system turning off and on throughout the day. There’s no outdoor fan pulling air into the house, either.
Tank-Free Water Heating
Geothermal systems can also connect to your water system to provide hot water using ground temperatures rather than fuel. This form of water heating is tank-free. It offers endless amounts of hot water, so you can enjoy hot showers even with a large family.
Call Gentry Heating today at 828-581-4045 to see how we can help you make your Asheville, North Carolina, home more efficient. We carry and install a range of quality HVAC products, and we offer the best services in the area.
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