Ground Loop Geothermal Systems
A residential/commercial alternative energy solutions company
Serving Pictou and Antigonish Counties
What does it cost to install?
Geothermal, like other central heating and/or cooling systems can be installed in a number of configurations including forced air, hydronic baseboard, and radiant floors for distribution. The source can be either an open or closed loop. A geothermal system usually costs somewhat more than a conventional fossil fuel system with air conditioning to install, but, it has a lower operation cost and no fuel deliveries. There are also no atmospheric emissions of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrocarbons with a geothermal system.
How does the cost of heating with a geothermal system compare to other heating modes?
Geothermal systems cost less to operate than electric, electric heat pumps, oil, natural and propane gas fuelled heating systems.
How much will it save?
This would depend on your local utility rates for electricity and each of the fossil fuels. Geothermal systems can provide efficiencies of 300 to 400%. This means that savings can reach 70% if optimum building conditions are met and a certified system is designed and installed.
How efficient is a GSHP?
The GSHP is one of the most efficient residential heating and cooling systems available today, with heating efficiencies 50 to 70% higher than other heating systems and cooling efficiencies 20 to 40% higher than available air conditioners. That directly translates into savings for you on your utility bills.
Can one system provide both space heating and cooling for my home? And what about heating hot water?
Yes. A GSHP can be a combination heating/cooling and hot water heating system. You can change from one mode to another with a simple flick on your indoor thermostat. Using a desuperheater, some GSHPs can save you up to 50% on your water-heating bill by preheating tank water. This can be further supplemented with solar based thermal collectors and further reduce the cost of electricity.
How does a GSHP system heat water for my home?
Using what is called a desuperheater, GSHPs turn waste heat to the task of heating hot water. During the summer, when the system is in cooling mode, your hot water is produced free as a byproduct of the thermal process. In winter, with the heating mode, the desuperheater heats a portion of your hot water. Desuperheaters are standard on some units, optional on others. Stand-alone systems that will heat water all year around can be purchased.
How long will my GSHP system last?
GSHPs are durable and highly reliable. The GSHP contains fewer mechanical components, and all components are either buried in the ground or located inside the home, which protects them from outside conditions. The underground pipe carries up to a 50-year warranty. These systems have been successfully used in Canada for over 30 years.
What other costs are there besides the GSHP system?
You can expect an installation charge for any electrical work, ductwork, water hook-up, and other provisions or adaptations to your home that are required. Your installer can estimate these costs in advance.
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