The approach of fall signals a good time to start thinking about heating your home during the harsh winter months. According to the Department of Energy, the typical family in the United States spends about $1,900 a year on utility bills. Unfortunately, a large portion of that energy is wasted. The key to saving energy and money is to search for energy efficient improvements for your home.
A Birmingham
geothermal home comfort system taps into the abundant source of free solar heat energy stored in the earth. It uses a series of pipes (an earth loop) buried in the ground to move that heat into a home during the winter. According to the specialists at WaterFurnace, most systems are easy to install in both new and retrofit situations. In addition to the ground loop (either horizontal or vertical), the system also requires ductwork to distribute conditioned air through the Birmingham home or business.
Although the initial investment in a geothermal system may be higher than the investment in a regular system, the long-term return on that investment makes it one worthwhile. The energy source is both free and renewable, and the average system lifespan exceeds 24 years—compared to 15 years for a traditional system.
In many cases, the monthly savings that an energy-efficient geothermal system offers will surpass any payments connected with the installation of the new system. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deems geothermal one of the most efficient heating and cooling systems available.
Installation of a geothermal system begins with a visit from your Birmingham geothermal dealer. The dealer will measure your house, analyze your heating and cooling needs and review your property to determine the best location for your loop system. If you own a house that does not have an existing duct system, your geothermal dealer can easily retrofit your home to include one.
Once installed, a geothermal system requires less maintenance than a standard heating and cooling system and functions more efficiently, delivering an impressive five units of energy for every one unit of electrical energy used. That translates to a 500 percent efficiency rating and savings up to 70 percent for heating, cooling and hot water costs.
Another plus -- geothermal systems use no fossil fuel and produce no carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide or other greenhouse gases. Homeowners experience added comfort, improved indoor air quality and less noise as they reduce their carbon footprint.
Birmingham 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 investment 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 take advantage of 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 Alabama Geothermal today or talk to one of our experts at 205-970-4119.