Advantages of Geothermal Heating

The approach of fall signals a good time to start thinking about heating your home during the cold winter months. According to the Department of Energy, the typical family in the United States spends about $1,900 a year on utility bills. Unfortunately, a large portion of that energy is wasted. The key to saving energy and money is to search for energy efficient improvements for your home.

A Lancaster geothermal home comfort system uses the abundant source of free solar heat energy trapped in the earth. It uses a series of pipes (also known as an earth loop) buried in the ground to transfer that heat into a home during the winter. According to the professionals at Gochnauer at Home, most systems can be easily installed in both new and retrofit situations. In addition to the ground loop , which can run horizontal or vertical, the system also requires ductwork to dispense conditioned air through the Lancaster home or business.

Although the initial investment in a geothermal system may be greater than the investment in an ordinary system, the long-term return on that investment ensures it is one worth making. The energy source is both free and renewable, and the average system lifespan exceeds 24 years—compared to 15 years for a regular system.

For most homes, the payments associated with installing the new system will be entirely covered by the monthly savings from having an energy-efficient geothermal system. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers geothermal systems to be one of the most efficient heating and cooling systems available.

Installation of a geothermal system begins with a visit from your Lancaster geothermal dealer. The dealer will measure your home, compute your heating and cooling requirements and evaluate your property to suggest the best location for your loop system. If your house doesn't have a preexisting duct system, your geothermal dealer can simply retrofit your home and provide one.

Once installed, a geothermal system requires less maintenance than an original heating and cooling system and functions more efficiently, delivering an astounding five units of energy for every one unit of electrical energy used. That converts to a 500 percent efficiency rating and savings up to 70 percent for heating, cooling and hot water expenses.

Another plus -- geothermal systems don't rely on fossil fuel and give off no carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide or other greenhouse gases. Homeowners experience added comfort, enhanced indoor air quality and less noise as they decrease their carbon footprint.

To find a geothermal system that fits your needs, contact Gochnauer at Home today or talk to one of our experts at 717-299-3776.