The Benefits of a Geothermal HVAC System

Most residents of Bunn, NC, know that geothermal HVAC systems can save energy, but what most people don’t know is that they can also save a lot of money. These systems have become increasingly popular in recent years, and there are plenty of good reasons why.

In addition to running on clean energy, a geothermal HVAC setup can last much longer than a traditional system and be a much better bargain over the long run. Here are some of the benefits of a geothermal HVAC system.

How Does a Geothermal Cooling System Work?

The name might make it sound complicated, but a geothermal cooling system is actually pretty simple. Instead of relying on kerosene, gas, or other fossil fuels to provide cold air, these systems use the natural cool air from the earth at the appropriate times.

The most popular geothermal systems are composed of:

• Piping circuitry for the air to flow to and from the earth
• A specialized device to disperse and absorb cool air from the ground nearby
• A ductwork system to make sure the air flows properly

Most geothermal units have both heating and cooling capabilities, but it’s the efficiency that sets these systems apart. Here are the six biggest advantages of owning a geothermal system.

Benefit #1: Reduced Operating Costs

Geothermal systems can have higher upfront costs, but they are much less expensive to operate. Compared to a traditional system, a geothermal unit is up to four times more efficient, and this can make it easy to save on energy bills throughout the year. Because the unit requires no fuel, most users save up to 70% in long-term operating costs.

Benefit #2: Faster Return on Investment

It doesn’t take long to get into the black on a geothermal unit. The savings that the unit provides typically exceed the system’s initial cost within four to five years, and the United States government offers a few different geothermal tax credits that can also help. Combine this with the fact that you’ll never have to worry about the fluctuating price of fuel, and it’s easy to see why the initial investment in a geothermal unit is such an attractive proposition.

Benefit #3: Increased Lifecycle

You’re lucky to get 15 years out of a traditional HVAC setup, and that’s if you take great care of your system. Traditional systems are exposed to the elements on a regular basis, and they often accumulate wear and tear quite quickly.

A geothermal unit, on the other hand, often lasts up to 50 years. The majority of its components are underground, and all of the most important parts are completely shielded from inclement weather. Other than changing the filters every so often and bringing out a professional for an annual inspection, these systems are quite easy to take care of.

When you factor in the amount that you save on replacement costs and expensive maintenance fees, you’ll usually find that a geothermal unit’s increased lifecycle can really reduce long-term expenses.

Benefit #4: Geothermal Systems Can Often Be Safer

There’s a good no reason that you’ll never hear about a case of carbon monoxide poisoning from a geothermal HVAC system, and that’s because it’s literally impossible. These units don’t rely on traditional combustion reactions, so you’re never in danger of inhaling harmful byproducts.

As the name would suggest, geothermal cooling uses the earth’s own renewable energy sources. This makes your unit non-toxic, clean, and sustainable.

Benefit #5: It’s Less Noisy Than a Traditional HVAC System

Conventional HVAC systems typically need an outdoor condenser unit to function properly, but these condenser units can be loud and distracting. Geothermal systems, on the other hand, are much more self-contained. Not only is a geothermal system quieter, but it can also be much more effective when it comes to dehumidifying your home or business.

It certainly shouldn’t come as a surprise that clean energy from the earth can be so efficient. Increased operating efficiency often leads to reduced operating expenses, and that’s exactly what geothermal cooling systems provide.

If you or somebody you know is interested in installing a geothermal system in Bunn, NC, then we’d love to see if we can help. Our team of HVAC experts at Alford Mechanics Heating and Air Conditioning is standing by, so don’t hesitate to contact us today about the systems we offer.

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