Geothermal heating and cooling systems are the most energy-efficient HVAC option for homes throughout the Columbus, GA and Opelika, AL areas. These dual heating and cooling systems offer benefits unmatched by any other type of HVAC equipment, which allow the investment to pay for itself in a matter of years. Despite these advantages, many homeowners often wonder how much a geothermal heat pump system costs.
What Is the Cost of a Geothermal System?
While geothermal heating and cooling systems are the most efficient type of HVAC system available, they’re also typically the most expensive. To install all components necessary for a geothermal system’s operation, the price typically runs between $20,000 to $30,000 on average.
The majority of the price goes toward the installation of the ground loop , a key component in geothermal system operation. The ground loop is a network of piping that is laid below ground on the property which is used to collect heat from within the earth for heating and as a heat receptacle during cooling season. The pipes may be laid horizontally or vertically and can be connected to a water source if available, such as a pond on the property.
In addition to the ground loop, other expenses include the cost of the geothermal heat pump as well as a ductwork distribution system for the home.
Payback Period for Geothermal System Installation
While the upfront expense is higher than with other types of HVAC systems, geothermal systems can pay for themselves in just a matter of years thanks to the immense energy savings they generate. The Department of Energy states homeowners could recover their investment costs in just two to 10 years .
A geothermal heating and cooling system uses natural heat energy found below ground to heat your home, not fossil fuels like a gas furnace system. The geothermal heat pump uses minimal electricity to operate, producing 3 to 4.5 times as much heat energy for the home compared to the electrical energy it consumes. This means a geothermal HVAC system is more than 100 percent energy efficient – the highest-efficiency furnaces available only reach about 98 percent efficiency, which means they still generate some waste through the heating process.
The Benefits of a Geothermal Heat Pump System
Superior energy savings is just one of the many great benefits a geothermal heating and cooling system brings to your home. When you consider how much a geothermal system costs, be sure to consider the many ways it will increase savings. More ways a geothermal HVAC system helps you save money and energy include:
- Long system life: Geothermal heat pumps have an average service life of 20 years or more, and ground loop components can last upwards of 50 years! With an incredibly long service life, you’ll spend less on replacement costs every 10 to 20 years as is necessary when using conventional heating and air conditioning units.
- Fewer maintenance and repair needs: Geothermal ground source heat pumps have fewer moving parts than other types of HVAC equipment, so they experience less wear and tear and typically don’t break down as often as other HVAC units. Below ground, the loop components are well shielded from damage due to the elements, helping these parts stay in service longer with little maintenance or repair help.
- Reduced carbon emissions: Because geothermal systems do not burn fossil fuels, adding this HVAC system to your home drastically reduces your household’s environmental footprint. Plus, you’re not vulnerable to fluctuating gas utility prices. Geothermal systems can be paired with solar panels and even offer water heating to further help you save on energy costs!
Geothermal System Installation and Service in Alabama and Georgia
Energy Savers provides geothermal system installation and service for homeowners throughout Columbus, GA and Opelika, AL. Contact us today to request an estimate or to schedule installation service for a new geothermal heat pump.
