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Twenty feet beneath the surface of the earth, temperatures consistently remain between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Geothermal heat pumps tap into that reliable heat source for HVAC cooling, heating and water heating systems for homes and businesses. Rather than generating heat from fuel like a conventional furnace, the pumps move heat from one space to another, much like your refrigerator does millions of times each day. Originally developed in the mid-1800s, ground-source pumps didn’t become widely available in the United States until the late 20th century. Today, these efficient, effective and cost-savings HVAC solutions are growing in popularity at a rate of 10 percent each year.

The Science of Geo Thermal Heat Pumps

Refrigerant is at the core of a ground-source pump system. As in a conventional air conditioner, the refrigerant moves through a looped system where it is compressed from a hot gas into a cool liquid, extracting heat from the air along the way. In the winter, heat pumps move heat inside, delivering warmth through ductwork or through individual air handlers. During the summer, the pumps pull heat out of the interior of your Nacogdoches, TX home or business, leaving the air inside feeling cool and comfortable.

Heat Pump Costs and Savings

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), geo thermal heat pumps are currently the most energy-efficient heating and cooling system on the market, offering up to 70 percent better efficiency than conventional HVAC systems. While more expensive to install, ground-source pumps are so energy efficient that they typically pay for themselves through lower monthly energy bills within 3 to 10 years.

According to the Department of Energy (DOE), the system life for the ground loop is estimated at 50 years. Other system components can last 25 years or longer. Homeowners who install Energy Star qualified heat pumps are eligible for a federal tax credit that pays for up to 30 percent of system installation costs.

Heat Pump Design Options

The broad selection of heat pumps available from McWilliams Heating, Cooling and Plumbing ensures the best HVAC solution for every home and business in Nacogdoches, TX. Some models are designed to work with existing ductwork while other geothermal heat pumps come with their own air handlers. Ground-source pumps can meet your entire cooling and heating needs or can supplement existing systems. There are even pumps available that move water rather than air for hot water heaters and radiant floor heating systems.

Annual inspections from a qualified HVAC technician are the key to a heat pump’s long-term energy efficiency and performance. According to the EPA, a well-maintained pump works with up to 25 percent better efficiency than a neglected system. At McWilliams Heating, Cooling and Plumbing, our HVAC technicians are not only adept at installing geothermal heat pumps but at servicing them as well. We ensure that your new heat pump keeps you comfortable while saving you money for many years to come.