Geothermal Heating & Air Conditioning
Geothermal Heat Pumps | Heating and Air Conditioning
Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of the consistent temperature of the soil several feet down, rather than relying on outside air temperature for its heat exchange. In the winter, ground temperature is warmer than air temperature, while in the summer it is cooler than the air temperature. By using the more consistent subsurface temperature, the geothermal heat pump has to work less than a conventional heat pump, the latter of which must work against the outdoor air temperature. Geothermal heating and air conditioning systems operate quieter, require very little maintenance, and are not dependent upon air temperature when compared to conventional heat pumps.
In addition, geothermal heat pumps outlast a conventional heat pump. The inside components have a service life of approximately 25 years, while the ground loop averages 50 years or more. This means the geothermal heat pump by far outlasts any conventional heating and air conditioning system. This enables the geothermal system to return your investment in a reasonable amount of time, while providing pure energy savings from that point on for years to come.
Conventional heat pumps are not practical for all parts of the country. Regions where winter temperatures are frigid may not provide the heat required. For these regions with very cold winters, the geothermal heat pump eliminates this problem, and keeps your home comfortable year round. Geothermal Heat Pump Efficiency
Geothermal heating and air conditioning systems are currently the most energy efficient systems available according to the EPA. A geothermal system will produce four times the amount of energy that they consume. Compared to conventional heating and air conditioning systems, the geothermal heat pump provides heating at a cost that is 40 to 70 percent less than conventional systems. The cost of cooling is as much as 50 percent less than conventional Katy air conditioning systems.
While the initial installation cost of a Geothermal Heat Pump is higher than conventional heating and air conditioning systems, tax credits can provide significant savings on the initial investment costs. Therefore, with the significantly reduced energy costs, the geothermal heat pump will pay for itself in a reasonable amount of time, typically, within five to ten years.
The key factors in receiving the highest potential from your geothermal heat pump is the proper installation and maintenance, as well as selecting the proper geothermal heating and air conditioning system for your home or business. Poor maintenance will reduce the energy efficiency of the heat pump by 25 percent according to the EPA.
For additional energy efficiency, some geothermal heat pumps will provide hot water. During the summer they provide hot water with no cost attached, and in the winter hot water is provided at approximately half the cost. They are available with two-speed compressors and variable speed fans saving energy while providing greater comfort. Geothermal Heat Pump Installation
There are numerous factors that must be considered before installing a geothermal heat pump. Climate, soil type and depth, the amount of land available, and rocky soil are examples of the factors that will affect the type of loop a geothermal heat pump will require on your location. The presence of ground or surface water may enable you to consider a different type of geothermal system, and can reduce the cost of installation. Local codes are an additional factor to be considered. The insulation of your home may affect the performance of the system if it is an older, under insulated home.
However, if your land availability is very small it doesn’t necessarily exclude you from a geothermal heat pump. Vertical loops and “slinky” loops are examples of solutions for limited land availability.
The installation of a geothermal heat pump is not a project a homeowner should undertake themselves due to the specialized knowledge that is required, as well as the numerous factors and considerations that must be observed for a properly installed system. Humidity Control
Geothermal heat pumps have the additional benefit of providing humidity control, by maintaining a relative indoor humidity level of 50%. This means the geothermal system is especially suited for humid environments, providing superior comfort for heating and air conditioning.
Carrier’s geothermal heating and air conditioning solutions are highly valued for their efficiency. These systems can provide comfort to your home more efficiently than any conventional system. Carrier’s geothermal systems are available with optional supplemental hot water production for even greater savings. Currently available on our Energy Star geothermal systems is a 30% tax incentive from the federal government. Further incentives may available in your area.
Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning is your local Carrier dealer in the Katy region. For geothermal heat pump service or installation give our certified technicians a call. Our certified and experienced technicians will be glad to take care of all of your heating and air conditioning needs.
