For energy-efficient heating and cooling, many South Jersey homeowners are switching to geothermal heat pumps. Geothermal heat pumps are installed underground or in an adjacent body of water, where the temperatures aren’t as extreme as we’re used to in the regular outdoors. By relying on the earth as a heat source in the winter and a heat storage system in the summer, geothermal heat pumps use less energy to heat and cool your home. Does this sound intriguing? Heating Specialties of Fairton, N.J., can help you determine if a geothermal heat pump is your next HVAC solution.
How do geothermal heat pumps work?
The geothermal heat pump incorporates a reversing valve, enabling a seamless transition between heating and cooling functions. Categorized into two types, air source, and water source, the geothermal variant uniquely operates as a water source heat pump. Drawing from the constant 55-degree groundwater in the primary well, the system amplifies this heat through its refrigerant, effectively transforming it into warmth. During warmer seasons, the heat from the home is extracted and infused into the well water to dissipate excess heat. While the process involves refrigerant intricacies, this simplifies the overall explanation. Notably, any water used is subsequently released into a secondary well. The geothermal system remains unaffected by temperature fluctuations, unlike air source heat pumps.
In contrast, air source heat pumps, including regular heat pumps and mini-splits, rely on ambient air temperature for heating. This method becomes less efficient in temperatures below 40 degrees, requiring constant operation to maintain adequate heating. Additional heat sources are often necessary for supplementation in such cases.
Advantages of a geothermal heat pump
Check out some of the advantages of using underground technology:
1. Energy efficiency. You’ve heard people talk about upgrading their homes to become eco-friendly. Geothermal heat pumps might be the most eco-friendly HVAC option for energy-conscious consumers. They also may qualify for a tax credit or rebate.
2. Longevity. Even the best conventional furnace or heat pump must be replaced every 10 to 20 years. Your geothermal system, on the other hand, can last more than 50 years, although you will have to replace the actual heat pump every 20 to 25 years. This extended lifespan can pay you back on the initial installation investment.
3. A geothermal heat pump can increase your home’s value. If you plan to sell your home soon, you may be able to fetch a higher price thanks to your geothermal heat pump. Homebuyers are often looking for homes that don’t rely on fossil fuels and their questionable future.
4. Safety AND peace and quiet. Conventional heating systems run the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if something goes wrong. A geothermal system doesn’t produce carbon monoxide, so there’s one less worry for you. (We do recommend homeowners keep their carbon monoxide detectors plugged in to identify other sources of carbon monoxide.) Geothermal heat pumps don’t require a noisy outdoor condenser unit, which means you can enjoy those summer evenings without the hum of your condenser in the background.
5. Hot water! As the geothermal heat pump works to capture heat, it can also divert the excess heat to your hot water tank using what is called a desuperheater. You may be able to save on hot water costs, which can be handy if you have family members who like to take long showers.
Is a geothermal heat pump right for my home?
Geothermal heat pump efficiency depends on many factors, including the location of your home, the subsoil, and the surrounding landscape. A Heating Specialties trained HVAC technician can investigate your home’s current conditions and advise you on whether a geothermal heat pump is a smart investment. Every home is different, and Heating Specialties works with a wide selection of products and equipment to ensure you’re getting the most value for your dollar.
Want to learn more about geothermal heat pumps? Schedule an appointment now by calling us at (866) 923-2653 or reach out online. You can trust Heating Specialties for all of your heating and cooling needs.