Question 1

Is geothermal heating worth the cost?

Accepted Answer

Geothermal heat pumps are worth the cost in climates with extreme winters, in homes with high heating loads, and when the 30% federal clean energy credit applies. In mild climates, cold-climate air source heat pumps offer similar comfort at lower upfront cost.

Question 2

What is the difference between geothermal and air source heat pumps?

Accepted Answer

Air source heat pumps extract heat from outdoor air and cost $6,000-18,000 installed. Geothermal heat pumps extract heat from the ground with higher efficiency (COP 4-5 vs 2-4) but cost $15,000-40,000 due to ground loop excavation.

Question 3

What is the payback period for a geothermal heat pump?

Accepted Answer

Geothermal heat pumps typically pay back in 8-15 years vs a gas furnace and 10-20 years vs an air source heat pump, based on energy savings alone.

Geothermal vs Air Source Heat Pump Calculator