Geothermal Heating and Cooling

Amanda Daniels
Geothermal heating and cooling have become a new way of sustainability for many buildings. Geothermal heat uses heat from the earth to generate electricity instead of using fuel. Geothermal heating and cooling technology has actually been around for about 50 years, but more recently has picked up speed for a popular way to heat and cool your home or business. Approximately 1 million homeowners and businesses now use geothermal heating and cooling instead of the traditional fuel burning way. This allows the owners to save an average of 30 to 70 percent from regular fuel costs. The environmental benefits are outstanding. For one home to use geothermal heating and cooling for twenty years would be the equivalent of planting 120,000 acres of trees or converting 58,000 cars to zero emission vehicles. The results would be enormous if more people invested in this option.

There are eight main benefits for switching to geothermal heating and cooling. The first is safety, as no fossil fuels are being burned to create energy, so there is no risk of explosion or hazardous fumes. The second is lower operational costs, as geothermal heating and cooling has efficiency ratings of 400-500%. The third benefit is green, as it has a positive impact on the environment unlike the burning of fossil fuels, so no greenhouse gases. The fourth is quiet, unlike traditional fuel systems, geothermal heating and cooling do not require the outside equipment, so no rattling or vibration. The fifth is bonus hot water, reducing the water heating cost for the average home by 50-60%. The sixth benefit is flexibility, as geothermal heating and cooling can be installed in warm or cold climates. The seventh is unmatched comfort, as this system provides superior air quality and comfort. The last benefit is a longer life cycle, as this system lasts 20 to 24 years unlike the conventional systems which last 13 to 15 years.

For one home to use geothermal heating and cooling for twenty years would be the equivalent of planting 120,000 acres of trees or converting 58,000 cars to zero emission vehicles.

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