GEOTHERMAL HEAT PUMPS


A few feet below the earth's surface, the ground remains at a relatively constant temperature. Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) are designed to draw upon these constant temperatures to make indoor temperatures warmer in winter and cooler in summer; some are even equipped to serve as water heaters

Sometimes referred to as geoexchange, earth-coupled, ground-source or water-source heat pumps, GHPs have been in use since the late 1940s and are durable and reliable. They use 25-50% less electricity than traditional heating and cooling systems, taking advantage of cave-like ground temperatures by exchanging heat with the earth through a ground heat exchanger.

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Geothermal Heat Pump FAQ

  1. How do I know if a GHP is a good fit for me?
  2. What size and type of GHP should I install?
  3. How much does a GHP system cost?
  4. What rebates or incentives are available for GHP systems?
  5. Are there any laws or regulations I need to be aware of?
  6. Are there any laws or regulations I need to be aware of?
  7. How much money and energy will I save?
  8. Are there any additional benefits?

1. How do I know if a GHP is a good fit for me?

Shallow ground temperatures are relatively constant throughout the United States, ranging from 45°F (7°C) to 75°F (21°C). For this reason, geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) can be effectively used almost anywhere. There are multiple types of systems available, and the specific geological, hydrological and spatial characteristics of your land will define the best type of ground loop for your site. A local contractor can help you determine whether a GHP system is right for you and which kind of system to choose. If you’re considering a wind system for your home, it’s a good idea to begin by increasing efficiency and reducing your overall energy consumption. Lowering your energy use will reduce the size of the home-based renewable energy system you need.

 

For more information:

Get an introduction to geothermal heat pumps and how they work.

Learn about the benefits of GHPs from the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association.

Get more facts from the Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium.

Learn about GHPs for homeowners from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

2. What size and type of GHP should I install?

There are four basic types of ground loop systems—horizontal, vertical, pond/lake and open-loop. Your installer can help you determine which type of system will be best for you based on the climate, soil conditions, available land and local installation costs.

For more information:

Learn about the types of ground loop systems.

Optimize your energy efficiency with an ENERGY STAR® rated heat pump.

3. How much does a GHP system cost?

GHPs cost roughly $7,500 for a 3-ton unit (a typical residential size). The type of system you select will impact your price.

4. What rebates or incentives are available for GHP systems?

There are a number of financial incentives and programs available for GHP system. Use the Energy Action Planner for additional information on financial incentives in your area.

5. Are there any laws or regulations I need to be aware of?

Most states apply water well drilling regulations to geothermal heat pump system installation. Check with your installer to find out which requirements or permits are required in your area.

6. What should I keep in mind if I’m hiring a contractor?

For general tips, including what to ask a potential contractor, how to compare bids and how to monitor quality, please visit the How to Hire a Contractor page.

In addition to the general tips on our How to Hire a Contractor page, you may need to consider some specific issues when hiring a contractor for this particular kind of work. Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

  • Installation of a geothermal heat pump requires specific technical knowledge and expertise.
  • Choose a contractor who is experienced with the type of system you plan to install, ask for references and check them thoroughly.

For more information:

To search a list of contractors in your area provided by the Better Business Bureau, visit the Energy Action Planner, right on this site.

7. How much money and energy will I save?

Geothermal heat pumps use 25-50% less electricity than a traditional heating or cooling system, so they’ll make a big dent in any utility bill. If your system includes a water-heating component, you can save even more energy and money.

8. Are there any additional benefits?

In addition to energy and financial savings, GHPS offer these benefits:

  • They use less space than conventional systems.
  • They are durable and reliable, with piping warranties of 25–50 years and pumps functioning for 20 years or more.
  • They can turn waste heat to the task of heating hot water, further increasing your energy savings.