Geothermal heat pumps are a fantastic heating and cooling solution that can make your home comfortable every month of the year! However, despite their many benefits, there are still plenty of myths and misconceptions surrounding them that might make some individuals hesitant to take advantage of them. If you're planning on installing geothermal heat pumps and want to tell fact from fiction, here are five popular geothermal myths and why they aren't true.

It's Possible to Run Out of Geothermal Energy

Some believe that it's possible to run out of geothermal energy. However, that's not true at all — geothermal energy comes from the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface, which is constantly replenished by natural processes. 

Geothermal heating and cooling systems rely on this steady source of renewable energy, unlike finite fossil fuels. These geothermal systems require only a small amount of electricity to operate, too, which makes them even more energy efficient.

Geothermal Systems Take Up Lots of Space

Another myth is that geothermal systems take up lots of space. While it’s true that some geothermal systems, like horizontal loop systems, need more land, vertical loop systems are perfect for smaller properties. 

Some installations involve drilling deep into the ground, which allows geothermal heat pumps to efficiently exchange heat, even in confined spaces. The compact nature of geothermal heat exchange equipment makes it adaptable for various settings, whether you’re cooling buildings or providing geothermal heating for an office space.

You Can't Use Geothermal in Cold Weather

Geothermal systems function effectively regardless of the weather for one simple reason — they don’t depend on external air temperatures to heat or cool. Instead, they harness heat from below the frost line, which is around 10 to 15 feet underground. 

The temperature down there remains constant, which means that it's typically warmer than your home in the winter months and colder than it is in the summer months. This means a geothermal system can deliver consistent geothermal heating during winter and operate as a cooling system in the summer.

Only New Homes Can Utilize Geothermal Systems

Given how geothermal technology is relatively recent in the grand scheme of things, some believe that it can only be used in newer homes. In reality, geothermal installation is feasible in both existing and new buildings. Retrofitting geothermal HVAC systems into older homes is not only possible but often improves energy efficiency significantly.

Many homeowners opt for geothermal systems during renovations because the heat pump can integrate with existing ductwork. By upgrading to geothermal heating and cooling, older homes can experience the benefits of renewable energy.

Geothermal HVAC Systems Aren't Environmentally Friendly

Because geothermal HVAC systems still need electricity to function, there are a few who believe they aren't environmentally friendly. While a geothermal heat pump uses electricity for heat exchange, it consumes far less than traditional heating and cooling systems. Because geothermal systems improve energy efficiency and cut down on carbon emissions, they play an important role in helping homes and businesses who want to shift to renewable energy sources.

Schedule a Heat Pump Service for Your Home With One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Bucks County

Want to bring the benefits of geothermal energy to your home? Then reach out to One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®! We offer professional geothermal system services to help your home stay comfortable and efficient, as well as IAQ and thermostat assistance. Give us a call today to learn more and to schedule one of our services for your home!