Human Interest

Energy From The Earth: Geothermal Heating

Posted: 12/13/2010

Homeowners can enjoy more comfort, improved indoor air quality and less noise as they reduce their carbon footprint

(NAPSI) - According to the Department of Energy, the average family in the United States spends about $1,900 a year on utility bills-a lot of that energy is wasted. Fortunately, there’s a way to keep heating bills from making you hot under the collar.

For example, consider a geothermal home comfort system. These tap into the abundant source of free solar heat energy stored in the earth and use a series of pipes (an earth loop) buried in the ground to move that heat into a home during cold weather. Most systems are easy to install in both new and older homes.

The energy source is free and renewable and the average system lasts for more than 24 years-compared to 15 years for an ordinary system.

In many cases, the monthly savings the system offers let it pay for itself quickly. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency considers geothermal systems to be among the most efficient heating and cooling systems available.

Once installed, a geothermal system requires less maintenance than a conventional heating and cooling system and operates more efficiently, delivering an astounding four units of energy for every one unit of electrical energy used. That translates to a 400 percent efficiency rating and savings up to 70 percent for heating, cooling and hot water costs.

Another plus: A geothermal system uses no fossil fuel and emits no carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide or other greenhouse gases.

In addition, 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, through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. 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 fits your needs, you can visit www.waterfurnace.com or talk to a WaterFurnace expert at (800) GEO-SAVE.

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