Do you need backup heat with geothermal?

• <div><p>If a geothermal heat pump is installed correctly, then you shouldn’t have to worry about having a backup heat source such as a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/furnace-and-heating-basics.htm">furnace</a> or oil boiler. However, there are geothermal systems installed that include a backup in case the heat pump fails due to extreme cold. This is simply a backup heat pump you’ll likely never need and not an alternative heat source.</p></div>

How long do geothermal systems last?

• <div><p>You can expect a geothermal system to last for years. According to the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/guide_to_geothermal_heat_pumps.pdf">Department of Energy, </a>the underground infrastructure for the heat pumps lasts about 25 to 50 years, which includes the pipes buried in the soil. The actual heat pump itself has a life span of around 25 years.</p></div>

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TRUSTED BY DURHAM, CA HOMEOWNERS

4.8
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28
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Verified Reviews for Heating Oil Service pros in Durham, CA

*The Angi rating for Heating Oil Service companies in Durham, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating Oil Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Heating Oil Service companies in Durham, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating Oil Service needs.

Last update on October 22, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
He did a wonderful job on my backyard. He gave me a great quote. He was so kind and he worked in the heat. I gave him five stars because he did a superb job. That I actually hired him for once a month maintenance in my backyard!
VM Crispin
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Reviewed in June 2023
Their number one concern is the customer pride themselves on service and friendly employees. Theyâ re highly responsible and reputable business. Thank you JESSEE HEATING an air.
Jessee Heating & Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in December 2018
This business is so amazing in an emergency! Two years ago they rescued me with a problem with my air conditioning and again today with my heater. Came out within an hour of my call, and the repairman Don was experienced and professional. Thanks Air Art!
Air-Art Heating & Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in March 2017
we have used this company for 5 years and are completely satisfied. they have saved us 1000 of dollars by doing thing to are 13 year old A/C heating units (2) to keep them running.
Apparatus Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in January 2015
It went fantastic. They always get someone out to give me an estimate in a day or two. Their prices are reasonable, and the employees and exceedingly helpful and friendly, from the initial phone call to the service. Bill has worked on my heater and my A/C, and he is wonderful. He was willing...
HIGNELL INC
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Reviewed in July 2013
Got it working. Gave us a great price on a new air & heating system when this one gives up. We wouldn't call anyone else.
Goodman Services
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Reviewed in May 2013
Our old water heater's pilot would not stay lite. After checking our old water heater, Gilbert gave me a couple of options 1. Replace regulator or 2. a new unit. He called several suppliers to check out the price of a regulator while I was listening. No one had one for the model/make of the old...
Accurate Plumbing
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Reviewed in March 2013
He came out quickly to fix a busted pipe connected to our hot water heater. He was quick and very responsive. After he left he noticed he made a mistake on my invoice and wanted to give me a refund for the overage. In the end i received a $30 refund.
American Pacific
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Reviewed in May 2012
Daniel Heal Plumbing came out a couple of months ago and they replaced some parts on our water heater. He saved us from having to buy a new water heater. He also installed a water softener for us. He is very expensive but we would not have anyone else do work for us. He is worth every dime and...
Daniel Heal Plumbing
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Reviewed in May 2009
2 or 3 years ago Mr. Meriwether installed a new heating and a/c unity in my home. He did a great job at a better price than anyone else. Yesterday as the windows were being cleaned, a worker broke a wiring connection to the compressor on the a/c unit. Mr. Meriwether came over the same day, and...
Meriwether Air Conditioning
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Find Heating oil pros in Durham

Gallaghers Plumbing, Heating & Air Inc.

Gallaghers Plumbing, Heating & Air Inc.

59 local quotes requested

36 years of experience

Welcome to Gallagher's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, where your family's comfort and safety are our top priorities. Whether you need air conditioning service, heating repairs, plumbing solutions, or indoor air quality improvements, you'll be served by one of our "Stand Up Guys" - highly trained professionals you can trust. Every member of our team has completed rigorous technical training, passed comprehensive background checks, and regular drug screening. We take pride in sending only the most qualified, courteous, and reliable technicians to your home. When you choose Gallagher's, you're choosing peace of mind and exceptional service from professionals who treat your home as if it were their own.

Blessed Family Electric

Blessed Family Electric

Customers say: Quick response

1 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Blessed Family Electric, a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 10 years of hands on experience, to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today! Cash is preferred!

"Great"

Miranda K on October 2024

"Great"

Miranda K on October 2024

Heating Oil questions, answered by experts

There are three main types of heat pumps. An air-source heat pump system is the most common and has two parts—an indoor air handler unit and an outdoor heat pump unit. A ductless heat pump system functions similarly to an air-source heat pump system but doesn’t need ductwork to distribute the air. A geothermal heat pump system pulls heat from the ground to help heat your home.

Yes, geothermal heat pumps are worth the money. You can save about 70% on heating costs in the winter and around 50% on cooling costs in the summer with a geothermal heat pump compared to a traditional HVAC system. Over time, your savings on monthly utilities will pay for the cost of the geothermal heat pump installation. If you have an incredibly small yard, however, you may not have enough space for this type of system.

Regular inspections, loop flushing, and checking heat exchangers help extend system lifespan.

If a geothermal heat pump is installed correctly, then you shouldn’t have to worry about having a backup heat source such as a furnace or oil boiler. However, there are geothermal systems installed that include a backup in case the heat pump fails due to extreme cold. This is simply a backup heat pump you’ll likely never need and not an alternative heat source.

You can expect a geothermal system to last for years. According to the Department of Energy, the underground infrastructure for the heat pumps lasts about 25 to 50 years, which includes the pipes buried in the soil. The actual heat pump itself has a life span of around 25 years.

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