Wondering if you should choose a geothermal system over traditional HVAC for your Des Moines home? Aspen Aire Heating & Cooling explains the pros and cons of geothermal vs. traditional AC & furnace systems. We also outline the cost savings, environmental benefits and potential tax savings so you can make an informed decision.
Understanding Geothermal Systems
How Geothermal Heating & Cooling Works
Geothermal systems offer an energy-efficient alternative to traditional HVAC systems by using the earth’s natural heat. These systems use a network of pipes buried about 10 feet underground, called a ground loop, to exchange heat between your home and the earth. A heat pump circulates a heat absorbent fluid through the pips, extracting heat from the earth in winter and transferring it into your home. In summer, the system cools your home by absorbing excess heat through the fluid circulating in the ground loop.
Types of Geothermal Systems
Closed-Loop Systems:
Closed-loop geothermal systems are the most popular for homeowners and businesses. These systems have a lower environmental impact and require less maintenance than other systems. But what makes this system different from the others is that a closed-loop system does not pull water from other sources. Instead, it constantly circulates a mixture of antifreeze and water, transferring heat through the liquid into your home.
Open-Loop Systems:
Also known as direct-use systems, open-loop geothermal uses groundwater as the heat transfer fluid. It’s important to note that open-loop systems need a consistent water source to operate. Instead of constantly circulating the fluid, the water is heated or cooled, transferred to your home and discharged outside. As a result, many open-systems pull from local wells, groundwater or aquifers. However, since it pulls and discharges water into the ground it’s more prone to collecting debris and needing additional repairs and maintenance.
Hybrid Systems:
Hybrid geothermal systems combine both air source heat pumps and geothermal systems. The geothermal ground loop pulls heat from the earth and adjusts the temperature indoors. However, the control system allows the traditional air heat pump to automatically kick on based on the outdoor temperatures. This allows the geothermal system to use less energy and supplement it with help from the air heat pump. As a result, homeowners get a smart system that runs more efficiently and prioritizes optimal energy consumption.
Benefits of Geothermal in Des Moines
Energy Efficiency: On average, geothermal heat pumps are more energy efficient than traditional HVAC sources. In fact, according to the Department of Energy, geothermal heating and cooling systems can save homeowners between 30%-70% on heating costs and 20%-50% on cooling costs compared to traditional furnaces & ACs.
Environmentally Friendly: Since geothermal systems rely on ground heat to operate, they don’t release any fossil fuel emissions. In fact, the EPA claims that geothermal heat pumps can reduce emissions by 44% compared to traditional air-source pumps.
Quiet Operation: Geothermal systems are typically much quieter compared to conventional HVAC equipment since the heat exchange happens underground. While geothermal systems do have indoor components, these are typically much quieter due to features like variable-speed fans and sound-dampening enclosures.
Longevity: Geothermal heat pumps have an incredibly long lifespan. According to the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA), the loop underground can last 50 years or more, compared to 15-25 years for most HVAC equipment.
Increased Resale Value: Most homebuyers tend to prioritize energy efficiency features like geothermal pumps. For example, The National Association of Realtors states that 63% of real estate agents and brokers believe it’s valuable to promote energy efficiency in home listings. New geothermal pumps are a great way of increasing your overall energy efficiency and increasing your resale value.
Local Incentives & Tax Credits: Many Des Moines homeowners can also qualify for tax credits or rebates for installing energy-efficient equipment. The Iowa Department of Revenue accepts applications on a yearly basis. We recommend visiting their website for more details.
Geothermal vs. Traditional Heating & Cooling Systems
Upfront Cost & Long-Term Savings
Initially, geothermal systems can cost two to three times more than traditional HVAC units. Factors like the specialized installation, type of loop and local land or climate restrictions can lead to a higher overall cost compared to simply installing a new furnace or AC. However, given geothermal’s long lifespan and energy efficiency, homeowners could possibly save thousands on repairs and replacement over the system’s lifespan.
Maintenance
Geothermal heat pumps require significantly less maintenance than traditional HVAC systems. With no outdoor unit exposed to the elements, geothermal systems avoid issues like debris buildup, corrosion and fan motor wear. Regular filter changes and occasional professional checkups are usually all that’s needed. On the other hand, traditional HVAC systems need more frequent attention, including seasonal tune-ups, coil cleaning and potential refrigerant refills. This difference in maintenance needs can save geothermal owners time and money over the long term.
Comfort & Performance
Geothermal systems provide more consistent temperatures and comfort compared to other heating and cooling systems. Forced air furnaces and standard air conditioners tend to noticeably shift temperatures creating a less comfortable environment. Because geothermal heat pumps draw heat from the ground, temperatures are easier to regulate, creating a more stable and comfortable indoor environment. This stability also improves overall humidity control. By avoiding extreme temperature swings, the system reduces excessive condensation and moisture buildup more efficiently than traditional AC units.
Is Geothermal Right for Your Des Moines Home?
Factors to Consider
Do you have enough land? – Homeowners typically need a large amount of land to install a geothermal system; between 500-1000 feet of trench per ton of heating/cooling capacity. However, the exact size depends on heating and cooling needs proportional to your home and the land you have.
Is your current HVAC system out of date, inefficient or damaged? – Generally speaking, you should expect to replace your furnace and air conditioner every 10-20 years.
Do you want to spend more upfront and save more over time or vice versa? – Installing a geothermal system can be at least twice as expensive as a regular HVAC system. The initial cost may not be suitable for every homeowner. We recommend considering the long term savings and weighing that with the initial cost.
The Choice is Yours
Geothermal systems blend consistent comfort with high energy efficiency and long-term cost effectiveness, giving you a sustainable way to heat and cool your home. Contact Aspen Aire for a free quote on a new geothermal heating and cooling system.