Geothermal HVAC systems are becoming more popular in Navarre, FL and for good reason. They offer incredible energy efficiency and environmental benefits, but like any newer technology, they’re subject to misconceptions. Let’s debunk five of the most common myths and shed light on the truth about geothermal.
1. Geothermal Costs Loads of Money
Many people believe that geothermal systems cost a significant amount of money. While the initial cost of a geothermal system can be higher than that of a traditional HVAC system, you can expect to save significant money on energy bills over a long period of it’s lifespan.
Also, geothermal systems often qualify for tax credits and rebates that further reduce the up-front cost. What’s more, they last longer than conventional systems, saving you money on replacements down the line.
2. Geothermal Works Only in Certain Climates
This is simply not true. Geothermal systems work effectively in all climates, from the coldest winters to the hottest summers, to maintain indoor comfort.
They utilize the stable temperature beneath the surface of the earth in all seasons. This makes geothermal a reliable and efficient option for heating and cooling, and it doesn’t matter where you live.
To illustrate, the Chena Hot Springs Resort in Fairbanks, AK uses geothermal energy to heat its buildings and greenhouses, and they even use this technology to heat an outdoor swimming pool. All this occurs while temperatures plummet to as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. This proves the incredible effectiveness of geothermal technology, even in the most extreme climates.
3. Geothermal Systems Require a Lot of Land
You might think that geothermal systems need a vast expanse of land for installation. However, advancements in technology have led to more compact and flexible installation options. Vertical loop systems, for example, require minimal space since professionals drill deep into the ground to install them, and this makes geothermal feasible even for smaller properties.
In the early days of geothermal, most systems used horizontal ground loops, which required burying pipes over a large area. This made geothermal impractical for many homes and businesses. But then came the vertical loop system.
With this innovative approach, installers drill deep holes, sometimes hundreds of feet down, to access the thermal energy in the earth. This means you can install a geothermal system even in a densely populated urban area or a small backyard.
4. Geothermal Systems Operate Noisily
If you worry about a noisy system disrupting your peace and quiet, rest assured that geothermal systems operate quietly. The main components reside underground, and this minimizes noise pollution. You’ll likely only hear a soft whoosh of air from the indoor unit, similar to what you’d hear with a traditional HVAC system.
You will also not hear the rattling of an outdoor system like what you hear when traditional HVAC equipment runs.
5. Not Environmentally Friendly
Geothermal systems are one of the most environmentally friendly HVAC options available. These systems use the natural heat from the earth as a renewable energy source to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This translates to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.
Geothermal systems also do not use refrigerants found in traditional HVAC systems. Traditional HVAC systems often rely on refrigerants that can contribute to ozone depletion and climate change. Typically, a geothermal system used water and anti-freeze.
This makes geothermal a much more eco-friendly option. You can enjoy comfortable temperatures in your home while knowing that you’re doing your part to protect the environment.
We hope we’ve cleared up some of the confusion surrounding geothermal HVAC. If you want a new heating and cooling system, geothermal is definitely worth exploring. Talk to our licensed and experienced geothermal installers at Lunsford Air Conditioning & Heating to see if it’s the right choice for your home.
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