6 Myths About Geothermal Heat Pumps, Busted

If you’re interested in a more environmentally friendly and effective way to both heat and cool your home, a geothermal heat pump might be right for you. Geothermal systems require very little maintenance, have low upkeep costs, and are kinder to the planet. What’s not to love about this state-of-the-art home comfort solution?

If you’re scratching your head thinking that doesn’t seem right, you might have fallen victim to believing the many misconceptions and myths surrounding the topic of geothermal heating and cooling. Because geothermal heat pumps aren’t as well-known as other HVAC systems, not many people understand how they work. Our experts are here to bust the most common myths about geothermal HVAC systems — and give you the real truth!

Myth #1: Geothermal Heat Pumps Don’t Work For Older Homes

One of the most persistent geothermal energy misconceptions is that it’s not possible to install geothermal systems in older homes. Nobody wants to spend thousands or even tens of thousands retrofitting their home just to try a new HVAC system, but this assumption is actually a myth. In many cases, geothermal heat pumps can work with your existing ductwork, making the installation process relatively straightforward as well as inexpensive.

Myth #2: Geothermal Systems Need Tons of Space

If you’ve ever seen a diagram of how geothermal heat pumps work, you may be assuming you need a ton of yard space to make room for the coils and components that make up the system. In fact, installers can install your geothermal system in a horizontal loop or a vertical loop, meaning if space is at a premium, you may still be able to reap the benefits of renewable energy!

Myth #3: Geothermal Heat Pump Installation Is Time-Consuming

At first glance, geothermal systems might appear much more complex than your average window or central air conditioning unit. While it’s true that geothermal heating and cooling systems operate differently than the home comfort solutions you’re used to, it’s a myth that geothermal heat pumps are very time-consuming to install. The installation process may take a little longer than for other HVAC systems, but within about 2-3 weeks, your new geothermal system will be up and running. (We do the rest of the work behind the scenes, such as acquiring permits and purchasing supplies.)

Myth #4: Geothermal Systems Don’t Work in Cold Climates

Some people assume geothermal systems don’t work in cold climates…and others think that they won’t work in hot climates. This stands as a testament to how misinformed many people are about how geothermal systems actually work. Because these systems draw energy from heat sources underground (a location that maintains a constant temperature), you’re relying on ground temperatures to heat and cool your home rather than air temperatures. When it’s cold, your system pulls heat from the ground. When it’s hot, your system draws warm air from the house, then exchanges it with the cooler temperatures underground.

Myth #5: Geothermal Heat Pumps Won’t Regulate Air Temperatures Adequately 

So now you know that geothermal heat pumps can work in most climates, but you may still be skeptical that this heating and cooling system will actually keep your home at a comfy temperature. Don’t fall for yet another geothermal myth! Geothermal systems can produce as much, if not more, temperature regulation for your home than their heating and cooling counterparts.

Myth #6: Going Geothermal Is Expensive

Geothermal HVAC is often thought of as a luxury only purchased by the uber-rich. During the very beginning stages of this home comfort technology, it was often the wealthy who invested in geothermal energy. However, after decades of research and development, geothermal energy has become more accessible and affordable than you could ever imagine. We promise the price tag is smaller than you think — and the installation will pay for itself sooner rather than later! You’ll save big by cutting out the need for heating oil, fossil fuels, and other fuels with rising prices. In addition, you can receive huge rebates and refunds from state and federal government agencies just by switching to geothermal energy.

Call Gore Heating & AC Today!

Are you ready to get a FREE estimate for geothermal heating installation? Need another HVAC service, such as gas pack installation? Or are you hunting for quality gas fireplace replacement logs? We do it all at Gore to keep your home comfortable, so contact our friendly technicians today. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!