Geothermal Systems: A Cold WeatherAlternative (NAPSA)—In manyparts of the country, last winter’s low temperatures broke long-standing records. In fact, it was so cold that, nearly a year later, some people arestill payingoff their fuel bills. As a result, a growing number of homeowners are looking for a more economical way to heat their home and manyare considering geothermal systems for a number of good reasons. e Savings And Efficiency Geothermal systems, which draw on the stored energy in the earth, are much more efficient than propane and offer savings in the range of 70 to 80 percent on a yearly basis. Plus, consumersare notleft vulnerable to volatility in the fossil fuel marketor delivery prices. More Convenience Unlike other renewable technologies, such as solar or wind, geothermal heat pumps provide constant benefits regardless of outdoor conditions. And there’s no waiting for fuel deliveries or running out of fuel at an inconvenient time. Equipment That Lasts Geothermal systems tend to have a longer life span than propane-fueled heating systems. Furnaces that run off of propane have an estimated life span of 15 to 20 years. On the other hand, geothermal heat pumps have been found to have a life span of roughly 25 years, while the underground piping system that accesses the underground energy can last more than 100 years before needing to be replaced. Tax Credits Available While the price and installation costs of a geothermal system Geothermal systems tend to have a longer life span than propane-fueled heating systems—andthereis no waiting for fuel deliveries. are higher than those of a propane system, the yearly energy savings experienced with a geothermal system can allow a homeownerto recoup the additional installation costs spent within five to 10 years, on average. Plus, a 30 percent federal tax credit is available to homeowners whoinstall a geothermal heating and cooling system. A Variety Of Uses Another advantage that geothermaloffers over propane fuel is that a single geothermal system can provide a homeowner both heating andcooling. Some geothermal systems even have an option that provides homes with hot water. With this combination, homeowners can enjoy even more savings. In some cases, that means up to 70 percent savings on their monthly utility bills. To learn more, visit the website at www.waterfurnace.com/switch.
