If you research cutting-edge and cost-effective methods of cooling and heating your home, you may ask, “What is geothermal HVAC?” As the top provider of geothermal installation in Virginia Beach, VA, Hats Off Heating and Air Conditioning helps people like you understand how this system works and the benefits of investing in it.
From Fort Story to Back Bay, we take comfort seriously. Keep reading to discover everything homeowners should know about geothermal heating and cooling and whether it’s a good fit for you.
What Is Geothermal HVAC?
Geothermal HVAC uses the earth’s internal temperature to exchange heat consistently and effectively. It works well in most areas because, while above-ground temperatures fluctuate, those underground remain relatively constant.
A ground-source heat pump is the most common device harnessing this technology because it provides both heating and cooling. However, boilers, certain furnaces, and in-floor radiant heating can also work throughout winter.
How the System Works in Virginia Beach
How does geothermal energy provide benefits year-round? They work similarly to a heat pump, but rather than draw in ambient air, they absorb it from deep below the surface.
The heat pump circulates refrigerant through long pipes under the ground. It absorbs the heat and transfers it inside, where it evaporates and disperses throughout the home. It reverses the process to cool the house and instead absorbs the hot air inside and releases it into the ground.
The system relies on its ability to change the refrigerant from a gas to a liquid and back again. Without this necessary chemical, the process doesn’t work.
The Benefits of Geothermal Systems Year-Round Comfort
What is geothermal HVAC? It’s a more modern way to heat and cool your home. As such, it has significant benefits over other heat pumps and split systems that use a furnace and air conditioner.
You Won’t Find a System With Greater Longevity
The average heat pump lasts about 15 years, with annual maintenance and moderate usage. Air conditioners and furnaces last between 20 and 25 years.
A geothermal system has a life expectancy of around 50 years. With double or triple the lifespan, you won’t find yourself paying for repeated upgrades.
Geothermal HVAC Runs More Efficiently and Saves Money
You’ll pay more to install geothermal heating and cooling upfront, but the expense pales compared to what you’ll save over the system’s life. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates it uses up to 50% less energy than traditional heating and cooling systems. When you consider it lasts two or three times longer, you’ll see how it can pay for itself multiple times over.
The System Has a Lower Carbon Footprint and Increases Eco-Friendliness
What is geothermal HVAC? It’s a form of renewable energy heating and cooling. While it still draws power from electricity, it uses considerably less.
Traditional heat pumps that absorb ambient air don’t work well once the temperature drops below freezing. However, one that uses geothermal energy stays efficient and effective year-round.
The Devices Run More Quietly Than Traditional Systems
Traditional heat pumps emit a moderate amount of noise. The constant hum and buzz can grow annoying if you spend significant time outside. However, the geothermal system has many pieces deep underground, so it runs almost silently.
Geothermal Systems Require Less Maintenance
Compared to split systems that use both an air conditioner and a furnace, the heat pump requires less maintenance. A ground-source system needs even less because their location underground protects them from wear and tear. However, still prioritize annual maintenance to get the most out of your investment.
Many Jurisdictions Offer Tax Credits for Sustainable Energy
Because geothermal qualifies as sustainable and environmentally friendly, homeowners can often obtain tax credits. For example, the Residential Clean Energy Credit offers a 30% tax credit for installing these systems. This helps moderate the original investment and saves more money in the long term, in addition to the low maintenance, long lifespan, and energy efficiency.
Schedule Expert HVAC Services in Virginia Beach Today
What is geothermal HVAC? Now that you have a basic understanding, Hats Off Heating and Air Conditioning can help you decide if it’s the best system for your home or business.
Whether homeowners live near Brigadoon or Camp Pendleton, we help by debunking geothermal HVAC system myths, providing expert installation, and keeping it functional with maintenance and repairs. We save our customers significant money on heating and cooling expenses in the long term.
To schedule an appointment for sustainable HVAC installation, contact us today.
