What Are Geothermal Systems & How Do They Work?

When people ask Masters Heating & Cooling this question about geothermal our thoughts often turn to hybrid and all-electric vehicles. They will cost a little more than a similar model with just a gasoline engine, but over time you will save money because of reduced fuel cost all while being environmentally responsible. In short, that’s the same reason why geothermal cooling and heating is an economical choice.

How It Works

Let’s start with a short primer on exactly how these systems work. Did your parents or grandparents ever tell you about root cellars in the days before refrigerators were common? The constant temperature just a few feet below the surface keeps food and produce cool in summer and prevents freezing in the winter. Geothermal systems tap into this steady and endless resource with a loop system of piping buried in the ground. An indoor ground source heat pump unit takes air from your home, sends it through the loop system for climate control and then returns it to the house. The result is economic summer cooling and winter heating.

Reasons Why Geothermal Makes Sense

Let’s start with the elephant in the room: Yes, geothermal systems are going to cost more upfront. But just like those hybrid and electrical vehicles, you must consider other factors including:

• Your heating & cooling bills will go down. A geothermal heating and cooling system can cut utility bills as much as 50-70 percent, depending on the type of system it replaces, The higher upfront cost can usually be recovered in 3-5 years. After that the reduced utility bills are like putting extra cash in your pocket month after month.
• If going green is important, geothermal is a great choice. We are just a few months removed from record setting heat waves around the world. Masters understands there can still be debates about the scope and causes of global warming. However, there can be no debate that reducing your carbon footprint is a good thing. Despite increased efficiency, traditional forced air systems can’t come close to the “green” impact of Geothermal.
• Peaceful silence is a good thing. Don’t you hate the noise the AC makes while you are socializing on the deck or patio? That’s not a problem because a ground source heat pump is installed indoors.
• That also leads to an increased lifespan. Since they are not exposed to the elements, ground source heat pumps can easily last 25 years. The underground loops can be guaranteed to last 50 years.

Many times, federal tax credits and local energy-saving incentives will offset at least a portion of the higher installation costs.

American Made

Geothermal systems from Masters Heating & Cooling, Inc. feature Water Furnace brand ground source heat pumps for homeowners in Fort Wayne, Decatur, Angola, Indianapolis, and Greenwood, IN. They are manufactured by American workers right here in Fort Wayne. To learn more about the economic advantages of geothermal heating and cooling, call Masters now to schedule your no-obligation appointment. Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to learn more about the services we offer.