Comparing geothermal and air-source heat pumps is a worthwhile
exercise because each has distinct advantages over the other. Both types of
heat pumps move heat from one place to another as their means of conditioning,
but use different sources for the energy.
Energy Efficiency
A geothermal system offers higher efficiency because it uses
the stable temperatures underground to either extract or replace heat instead
of the atmosphere. This makes geothermal heat pumps the most energy efficient
HVAC systems currently available and homeowners who install qualifying
geothermal systems can receive a 30 percent tax credit until the end of 2016.
Installation and Costs
An air-source heat pump is by far the easier of the two
types to install. A geothermal system requires an underground loop field that
involves burying the loops in a horizontal or vertical loop field, the depth of
which depends on your yard’s geology, hydrology and size. The loop field adds
considerable cost to the geothermal system, although the cost of the equipment
for either air-source or geothermal is roughly the same.
Durability
Geothermal systems last far longer than air-source heat
pumps, largely because they’re not exposed to the elements. The underground
loop field can last 50 years and longer, while the indoor air handler can reach
25 years. An air-source heat pump, on the other hand, has a system life between
15 and 20 years. Both types will last longer with annual maintenance from an
HVAC pro and routine air filter changes.
Utility Savings
Performance
When comparing geothermal and air-source heat pumps in terms
of performance, the geothermal system comes out on top simply because
underground temperatures don’t vary as much. An air-source heat pump will be
able to provide all the cooling your home needs, but in the winter as
temperatures fall into the 30s, may have trouble harvesting the heat your home
needs. A geothermal system runs more quietly than an air-source heat pump,
since it doesn’t require an outdoor condenser, which also saves space in the
yard.
If you’re in the process of comparing geothermal and
air-source heat pumps in southeast Louisiana, contact Surgi's today at 469-4232.
By Johnny Tubbs, Energy Saving Tips By Johnny Tubbs,
Reprinted from The Courier of Montgomery County
Need a new system? Surgi's can help. Need a healthier, more comfortable life? We can change the way you feel about your home.
Questions? Call 469-4232.
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