Money And Space For Geothermal Systems

Geothermal technology is nothing new, but it has never been the choice of the masses because of the cost of installation. However, when evaluating the expense to install versus possible energy savings, it becomes evident why geothermal cooling and heating systems in the end is a very cost effective alternative for the home. 

It does cost some money to dig up or drill in the earth to install the plumbing system required for the heat pump to operate. Additionally, people who live on small lots might find it difficult to acquire the yard space necessary to put in a loop field required for a ground source heat pump.

Fortunately, most people can install some type of field for their ground source heat pump. Even with a small yard, vertical loop systems (as shown in the picture) can be extended deep into the earth like artisan wells to get the necessary linear footage required by the heat pump. Drilling is expensive, but it does provide for an excellent loop system. 

Those who have plenty of space outside their homes can install horizontal fields, but there are at least two other variations that may work better based on conditions. For instance, a pond loop system may be a better plan if a pond is located near the home. 

A pipe goes into the water and makes several coils on the bottom in the deepest part, and then it returns to the unit. An open system works with the water from a drilled well to reclaim heat or cooling.   

Costs have not dropped as much in the 50-year history of geothermal heat exchange as consumers have hoped, but there some savings possibilities. There are some government programs that encourage the use of this renewable energy. Tax credit benefits may be applied that will pay for about 65% of the installation costs. 

Some of those who have bitten the bullet and put in geothermal heating and cooling systems have paid for the extra cost in as little as five years through savings in energy. This savings can reduce utility costs by as much as 40-70%. The upkeep costs are low for ground source heat pumps, also. So after the initial cost is made up, the savings increase rapidly.