In recent years, oil and gas prices have soared. If you are a homeowner that’s interested in improving the energy efficiency of your property and reducing your monthly utility costs, you may want to explore geothermal heating as an alternative to traditional natural gas or oil-powered systems. Geothermal systems rely on the earth itself to heat or cool your home. Here are five reasons to consider making the switch from fossil fuel to geothermal.
Energy Efficiency
Geothermal systems are the most energy efficient by far. The EPA estimates that new geothermal heating units are 48 percent and 75 percent more efficient than gas and oil heat, respectively. Efficiency ratings for geothermal systems are obtained by measuring metrics like system performance, heat loss, and electrical output. The same measurement system is used for gas and oil furnaces as well.
Safety
Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that can back up into your home if your fossil fuel heating system is not operating property. It’s nearly impossible to detect and a back-up can have dire consequences. Carbon monoxide is not present in geothermal heating systems because they do not require combustion to operate. They are regarded as the safest heating option available.
Greenest Option
Not only are geothermal systems the safest heating option out there, they are also the greenest. As mentioned, these systems are more efficient than traditional natural gas or oil heat. They also operate cleaner, with zero harmful emissions. The air inside and outside of your home will be cleaner with geothermal heat. Making the switch can help you reduce your carbon footprint.
Monthly Cost Savings
It goes without saying that there’s a cost associated with installing a geothermal heating system, as there is with any other HVAC installation. Since these systems operate so efficiently, the monthly cost savings is also greater. They also have a longer lifespan than traditional fossil fuel systems. Geothermal heating units can last for decades. By comparison, the average lifespan of a natural gas or oil furnace is just 7-10 years.
Government Rebates
Geothermal heat can also save your family money in a different way. Since geothermal is the greenest option for heating and cooling your home, the federal government has a tax rebate program in place for homeowners who choose to make the switch. Those who convert from natural gas or oil to geothermal heat can receive a credit of up to 30 percent off the cost of installation. The credit can be applied on next year’s taxes to help reduce or eliminate your tax bill.
There are many good reasons to make the switch to geothermal heat from natural gas or oil. Geothermal systems are energy efficient, safe, green, and converting can help you reduce your monthly utility bills. If you are interested in learning more about your options for geothermal heat, there are a number of resources available to you. Visit this page for a comprehensive overview of how these unique systems rely on the power of the earth to heat and cool your home.