Should You Make The Switch To A Ground Source Heat Pump? Information To Help You Decide

Heating and cooling bills can take a large chunk out of the average household budget. So it is not surprising that many families may want to consider other HVAC options when the time comes to replace or make major repairs on their existing system. Many may choose this time to explore the possibility of installing a ground-source heat pump. If you are ready to make some changes in your heating and cooling system and are wondering whether you should make the switch to a heat pump, this information will help you make the right choice. 

Does the initial cost represent an investment for your homeownership plans? 

Homeowners who are seriously considering the installation of a ground-source heat pump have probably already done their research and know that the initial cost to do so can be substantial. In fact, the average cost of installing a heat pump is currently estimated to be slightly more than $5,600.

Homeowners who do not plan to remain in their home more than a year or two may not be able to recoup the total purchase and installation cost of a new ground-source heat pump and may be financially better off to refurbish their current HVAC system or opt to install a less expensive air-source heat pump, instead. However, homeowners who do plan to stay in their home for a number of years should be able to easily recoup their initial costs for purchasing and installing a ground-source heat pump because of the reduction in their monthly heating and cooling costs. In fact, it is estimated that many households may save as much as 40 percent on their monthly heating and cooling bills after a geothermal heat pump is installed.

Is your climate suitable for heat pump use? 

The next consideration is whether or not the climate in which your home is located is suitable for heat pump use. Improvements in the designs and types of available heat pumps have made it possible to use them in most climates. However, homeowners who live in areas where the winters are very frigid or summers are extremely hot may not find heat pumps to be as efficient as those who live in areas with more moderate temperatures and climatic conditions. 

Are there benefits beyond more efficient heating and cooling? 

Beyond their ability to lower heating and cooling costs in the average home, a ground-source heat pump may also be able offer additional benefits. Families who include an allergy or asthma sufferer may find that the home's indoor air quality is improved after the installation of a heat pump, making it easier for every family member to breathe. 

All heated and cooled air produced by the action of a heat pump is filtered before being introduced into the interior of the home. Because of this, the amount of dust, pollen, and airborne allergens in the home environment are lessened. In addition to making it easier to breathe, this type of filtration action can also help to reduce dust on surfaces and result in reduced need for housekeeping chores. 

Another potential benefit that homeowners can experience with the installation of a heat pump is a reduction in maintenance and repair needs over the life of the system. Standard HVAC systems require maintenance for both a furnace and an air conditioning system. A heat pump uses ground temperatures to both warm the home in winter and cool it in summer with only one unit to maintain. 

If you have additional questions about ground-source heat pumps or would like to also explore other types, such as the air-source heat pump, it is wise to get the advice of a reputable HVAC contractor in your area. This professional can assess the specific heating and cooling needs of your home and family and help you make a smart decision. 


Share