m mee SS, Geothermal Systems: An Alternative To Propane (NAPSA)—Therecent spike in propane prices has consumers looking for alternative ways to condition a home. As a result, a growing number of homeowners are considering geothermal heating and cooling as that alternative— andfor a numberof good reasons. eEfficiency and savings 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, consumers are not left vulnerable to volatility in the fossil fuel market or delivery prices. * Increased convenience There’s no waiting for fuel deliveries or running out of fuel at an inconvenient time. Unlike other renewable technologies like solar or wind, geothermal heat pumps provide constant benefits regardless of outdoor conditions. e Life span of equipment Geothermal systems tend to have a longer life span than propane-fueled heating systems. It is estimated that furnaces that run off of propane have life span of 15 to 20 years. Geothermal heat pumps, on the other hand, 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. * Costs over time While the price and installation costs of a geothermal system are higher than those of a propane Geothermal systems tend to have a longer life span than propane-fueled heating systems—andthereis no waiting for fuel deliveries. 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. More uses Another advantage that geothermal offers over propanefuelis 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 meansupto 70 percent savings on their monthly utility bills. To learn more, visit the website at www.waterfurnace.com/switch.
