Many people believe that a geothermal HVAC system isn’t practical for a home in Virginia Beach, Virginia, but the technology can help homeowners almost anywhere save money and energy. You don’t need to live near a geothermal feature like a hot spring to take advantage of the temperature underground. Here are some of the most common geothermal energy myths.
Geothermal Technology Is New
Geothermal HVAC systems have been around for decades, and the first geothermal power plant opened over a century ago in Italy. Today, the United States is the largest geothermal energy producer in the world. As the technology improves and costs decrease, geothermal heating and air conditioning is becoming more and more popular. You could even get a federal tax credit to help you save on installation.
You’ll Need a Large Yard
Since there’s no outdoor unit, a geothermal system won’t take up space in your yard or garden. However, installation could damage your landscaping. Most geothermal systems use underground pipes buried several feet underground in a horizontal loop. Water or refrigerant circulates through the pipes to heat or cool your home efficiently. If you have a lake, pond, or well, you can have the pipes placed underwater instead of underground. You can also have a vertical loop installed. This type of geothermal HVAC system only uses a few square feet of land, but the pipes reach about 300 feet underground.
Maintenance Is Complicated
Since all the parts of a geothermal HVAC system are inside or underground, they’re protected from vandalism, debris, bad weather, and other hazards. This makes geothermal systems reliable and easy to maintain. Most systems last about twice as long as conventional heaters and air conditioners.
Weather Makers has over 45 years of heating and cooling experience. We can help you install, maintain, and repair a variety of geothermal and other HVAC systems and equipment. Call us anytime at 757-263-4869 for excellent customer service and more information about geothermal energy.
