How Does a Geothermal System Work?
Just below the Earth’s surface, the ground is a consistent 45 to 75 degrees. A geothermal heat pump pulls cold air from the house in the winter and runs it through pipes underground to warm it back up and flow it back in. The process reverses in the summer when warm air is pulled from the home and cooled in the underground pipes. The process simply moves heated or cooled air from one place to another.
This is a clean, reliable, and renewable heating and cooling process that should keep you comfy all year ‘round. While installation costs are higher than a traditional HVAC system, it could be offset in energy cost savings in 5 to 10 years, according to the Department of Energy.
How Does the Cost of a Geothermal System Compare?
There’s no denying that the upfront cost of installing a geothermal heat pump (also called ground source heat pumps or geothermal HVAC systems) is steep. It’s 30 to 40% more expensive than installing traditional heating and cooling systems, but before you say no, let’s look at a few facts.
Geothermal systems can last twice as long as traditional systems.
Energy use is reduced, so you can expect lower energy bills that could offset installation price in 5 to 10 years.
Geothermal is “clean” energy, which reduces your carbon footprint.
In summary, your house stays at a consistent temperature all year round, you get lower energy bills, and you’re having less of an impact on the planet. But wait, there’s more!
Tax Credits Bring the Geothermal Installation Cost Down
A federal tax credit is in place through 2024 to help with the cost of installing renewable energy systems, like geothermal heat pumps. The credit could make the cost of a geothermal heat pump system comparable to furnace and air conditioning systems. The credit applies to new or existing homes. Second homes also qualify.
Factors to Consider When Sizing a Geothermal Heat Pump
Your pump needs will vary based on the size of your home, the terrain of your yard, and the climate you live in. The Manual J method factors the size and shape of the home, the climate, and amount of insulation in the home along with the preferences of its occupants to calculate the heat pump necessary.
A pump that’s too big or not big enough could make your system inefficient and leave hot and cool spots in the home. Even worse, it won’t properly control humidity. It’s worth having a pro assess your space. Find a geothermal installation company near you.
What Is the Cost of a Geothermal Heat Pump Near Me?
Installation cost can vary by region. Here’s a look at the typical price range in 10 U.S. cities.
| City | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dallas | $4,900 – $10,000 |
| Baltimore | $9,000 – $30,000 |
| Minneapolis | $2,700 – $11,000 |
| Indianapolis | $1,750 – $12,000 |
| Boston | $12,420 |
| Chicago | $2,100 – $25,000 |
| Cincinnati | $4,300 – $10,100 |
| Pittsburgh | $55,600 – $61,000 |
| San Antonio | $14,300 – $18,100 |
| Atlanta | $5,100 – $27,700 |
What Is the Cost of a Geothermal Heat Pump?
A ground source heat pump costs about $2,500 per ton. Most homes will need systems between 3 and 5 tons.
Types of Geothermal Systems
Depending on your yard, your geothermal heat pump professional will recommend a horizontal, vertical, or looped system.
Horizontal systems are most common for residences. Looped pipes are buried 4 to 8 feet deep.
Vertical systems are used when the yard isn’t big enough to support a horizontal system or the soil is too shallow to accommodate the trenches. Instead, the pipes go down 100 to 400 feet into the earth. This is, as you might guess, the most expensive option.
If you’re lucky enough to have water access on a lake or pond, you might be able to use a lower-cost system that runs 8 feet under the water’s surface. Your professional will let you know if your water meets the criteria. (Fingers crossed for you!)
Can I Install a Geothermal HVAC System Myself?
This is not a home improvement project that should be done without professional help. It takes precision and expertise to design the system around climate, different soil conditions, and water while factoring in home size and household preferences. A professionally installed system can last decades and drastically cut your energy bills, so it’s worth paying a pro to get it right. See what questions to ask your HVAC pro.
Geothermal Heating and Cooling Cost Breakdown
Depending on your home’s needs, you can expect the following costs for your geothermal pump project.
Pump and installation: $2,500–$5,000 per ton
Upgrading your ductwork: $5,000–$20,000
Resodding your yard: $450–$4,520
Unfortunately, geothermal system installation is going to seriously disrupt your yard. Hopefully you didn't just landscape! Factor in the cost of fixing it back up.
