The onset of fall signals a good time to start thinking about heating your home during the cold winter months. According to the Department of Energy, the regular family in the United States spends about $1,900 a year on their utilities. Unfortunately, a large portion of that energy is wasted. The secret to saving energy and money is to look into energy efficient improvements for your home.
A Charlottesville geothermal home comfort system uses the abundant source of free solar heat energy stored in the earth. It uses a series of pipes (also known as an earth loop) buried in the ground to move that heat into a home throughout the winter. According to the experts at WaterFurnace, most systems can be easily installed in both new and retrofit situations. In addition to the ground loop , which can run horizontal or vertical, the system also requires ductwork to distribute conditioned air through the Charlottesville home or business.
Although the original investment in a geothermal system may be greater than the investment in a standard system, the long-term return on that investment makes it one worthwhile. 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 offers will exceed any payments connected with the installation of the new system. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers geothermal systems to be one of the most proficient heating and cooling systems available.
Installation of a geothermal system starts with a visit from your Charlottesville geothermal dealer. The dealer will measure your house, analyze your heating and cooling needs and evaluate your property to determine the best location for your loop system. If you own a home that does not have an existing duct system, your geothermal dealer can easily 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 astounding five units of energy per one unit of electrical energy used. That translates to a 500 percent efficiency rating and savings up to 70 percent for utility costs.
Another bonus -- geothermal systems use no fossil fuel and give off no carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide or other greenhouse gases. Homeowners experience added comfort, enhanced indoor air quality and less noise as they reduce their carbon footprint.
Charlottesville 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 is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2009. Homeowners may also benefit from utility rebates and state tax incentives where available to make geothermal systems more affordable than ever.
To find a geothermal system that suits your needs, contact Shelton Air today or talk to one of our experts at 260 446-9280.