Residential Geothermal Air Conditioning

Egg Systems has been in the news for over 19 years showing the public how they can save money and the environment using Geothermal Technology.

Remember, a geothermal heat pump doesn't create heat by burning fuel, like a furnace does. Instead, in winter it collects the Earth's natural heat through a series of pipes, called a loop, installed below the surface of the ground or submersed in a pond or lake. Fluid circulates through the loop and carries the heat to the house. There, an electrically driven compressor and a heat exchanger concentrate the Earth's energy and release it inside the home at a higher temperature. Ductwork distributes the heat to different rooms.

In summer, the process is reversed. The underground loop draws excess heat from the house and allows it to be absorbed by the Earth. The system cools your home in the same way that a refrigerator keeps your food cool - by drawing heat from the interior, not by blowing in cold air.

The geothermal loop that is buried underground is typically made of high-density polyethylene, a tough plastic that is extraordinarily durable but which allows heat to pass through efficiently. When installers connect sections of pipe, they heat fuse the joints, making the connections stronger than the pipe itself. The fluid in the loop is water or an environmentally safe antifreeze solution that circulates through the pipes in a closed system.

Another type of geothermal system uses a loop of copper piping placed underground. When refrigerant is pumped through the loop, heat is transferred directly through the copper to the earth.

As with any heat pump, geothermal and water-source heat pumps are able to heat, cool, and, if so equipped, supply the house with hot water. Some models of geothermal systems are available with two-speed compressors and variable fans for more comfort and energy savings. Relative to air-source heat pumps, they are quieter, last longer, need little maintenance, and do not depend on the temperature of the outside air.

Egg Geothermal Heating and Cooling uses the Earth's constant temperature to achieve EER's (Energy Efficiency Ratings) in the 30's. The heating COP (Coefficient of Performance) is approaching 5. A 5 COP indicates that the Egg Geothermal Systems are producing 5 units of energy for every unit of electricity consumed. The other 4 come from the Earth. That's why this technology is called "renewable".

Tax Credits

In an effort to encourage the wide spread use of geothermal technology Congress passed the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008 (H.R. 1424) which offers a onetime tax credit of 30% of the total investment for homeowners who install residential ground loop or ground water geothermal heat pumps.

Here are some of the stipulations for the residential systems:

1. The system must meet Energy Star requirements in effect at the time the system is completed.

2. The system must be in the taxpayer's residence but is not limited to the primary residence.

3. No proof of purchase will be required; however, in case of an audit, you are encouraged to keep a detailed invoice of your investment on file.

4. There are no specific requirements for the invoice. However, it will be helpful if the invoice states "Geothermal Heat Pump" and that it "Exceeds requirements of Energy Star program currently in effect" on it.

5. The taxpayer has to file the Form 5695 to receive the credit.

6. If you are subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax, you can claim the credit on your taxes for the following year.

7. Can be combined with solar and wind tax credits!

8. Homes must be located in the United States.

9. Includes homes, apartments, condos, and mobile homes.

10. System must be installed between 1/1/2008 and 12/31/2008.

There has never been a better time to invest in a geothermal system! When you couple the tax credit with the energy savings you can expect a full payback in three to five years. Please take advantage of this exceptional opportunity - you’ll be happy you did!

The Benefits of Geothermal Heat Pumps

The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have both endorsed geothermal heat pump systems as among the most energy efficient, environmentally clean, and cost effective systems for temperature control. Homeowners can expect to enjoy a comfortable, reliable, and economical system while also reducing energy use and pollution.

Ground source heat pumps provide heating, air conditioning, and, if so equipped, supply the house with hot water. They are smaller than a traditional heating/cooling unit and can easily be retrofitted into any home. The mechanical components are safely located underground or within the home – which eliminates fears of vandalism or theft. With extreme durability the parts can last a generation and require very little maintenance. These systems do not have fans, so instead of hearing and feeling blasts of air, you will enjoy a quiet, consistent temperature throughout the day. Geothermal heat pumps can even improve your health and reduce allergies because they excel at humidity control, thus there is a reduced chance for mold and mildew growth.

In addition to being practical and providing a luxurious atmosphere, geothermal heat pumps are exceptionally good for the environment and extremely safe. These systems do not have on-site emissions or flammable materials. By eliminating any combustion you do not have to worry about fumes, odors, or carbon monoxide in your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, if just 100,000 homes converted to a geothermal heating and cooling system, carbon dioxide emissions could be reduced by 880 million pounds. Currently, atmospheric CO2 is 30% higher than it was 200 years ago and if not reduced can cause serious detrimental global impacts. Geothermal technology offers a wonderful solution to lowering these greenhouse gases.

There has never been a better time to invest in a geothermal heat pump system. Contrary to popular belief, geothermal units are surprisingly affordable and save you more and more money over time. While investing in a geothermal unit is initially more expensive than a traditional system, the annual savings on energy bills more than compensates for the initial output and you can usually expect full payback in three to five years. With efficiency ratings at least three times higher than other heating and cooling systems it is estimated that you can save between 30 to 70% on heating and cooling costs. Also, recent Congressional legislation has provided a 30% tax credit for the installed cost of a residential heat pump system, no cap.

When you consider the durability, comfort, cleanliness, and energy savings it is obvious why the government has endorsed them as the best systems for temperature control!

For more information see here.

A Beginning For Change

This blog has been started to create awareness about the market of geothermal technology and all the benefits it has to offer. As an employee of Egg Systems I have a first hand account of the improvements a geothermal heating and air conditioning unit can offer to home and business owners. I hope you enjoy this blog and find it informative! If you have any questions, please leave a comment and I will be sure to answer your question in a timely fashion. Thanks so much for visiting!