The onset of fall signals a prime time to start thinking about heating your home during the colder winter months. According to the Department of Energy, the regular family in the United States spends roughly $1,900 a year on their utilities. Unfortunately, a large portion of that energy gets wasted. The secret to saving energy and money is to investigate energy efficient improvements for your home.
A Beatrice geothermal home comfort system uses the abundant source of free solar heat energy trapped in the earth. It uses a series of pipes (also known as an earth loop) buried in the ground to transfer that heat into a home throughout the winter. According to the professionals at WaterFurnace, most systems can be easily installed in either new or retrofit situations. In addition to the ground loop , which can run horizontal or vertical, the system also requires ductwork to dispense conditioned air through the Beatrice home or business.
Although the original investment in a geothermal system may be more than the investment in a standard system, the long-term return on that investment pays off. The energy source is both free and renewable, and the typical system lifespan exceeds 24 years—compared to 15 years for a regular system.
In most cases, the monthly savings that an energy-efficient geothermal system provides will exceed any payments related to the installation of the new system. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regards geothermal systems as one of the most proficient heating and cooling systems offered.
Installation of a geothermal system starts with a visit from your Beatrice geothermal dealer. The dealer will measure your home, compute your heating and cooling requirements and evaluate your property to suggest the best location for your loop system. If you own a home that does not have an existing duct system, your geothermal dealer can simply retrofit your home to include one.
Once installed, a geothermal system needs less maintenance than an original heating and cooling system and works more efficiently, delivering an amazing five units of energy per one unit of electrical energy used. That converts to a 500 percent efficiency rating and savings up to 70 percent for utility expenses.
Another advantage -- geothermal systems don't rely on fossil fuel and give off no carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide or other greenhouse gases. Homeowners receive added comfort, enhanced indoor air quality and less noise as they decrease their carbon footprint.
Beatrice homeowners who install a geothermal system before Dec. 31, 2016, can take advantage of a federal renewable energy tax credit of 30 percent of the total cost for the system. As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, this tax incentive can be used for installations dating back to January 1, 2009. Homeowners may also benefit from utility rebates and state tax incentives where available to make geothermal systems more cost efficient than ever.
To find a geothermal system that meets your needs, contact Noakes Heating & Air today or talk to one of our experts at 402-223-5348.