Plan, Budget, and then Save $$$
If you're ready to build or looking to upgrade it's important to get all the facts first.
Installation Costs
Geothermal Systems cost more at installation but can save tons of money and millions of BTUs (operating costs). A standard water-to-air heat pump with ductwork may be in the $3,800 to $5,000 per ton range for the “inside” geothermal equipment, about the same cost as a fossil fuel based heating and air conditioning system. This range varies because of construction variables, e.g. ductwork, plumbing and electrical requirements.
Duct and well costs maybe the largest variables. Duct costs can vary by as much as +/- $1,000 per ton. If a domestic well is planned for the home, the differential cost for geo maybe small. If employing a “closed loop” earth coupling (not a well) or a dedicated geo well, the costs could be another $1,500 to $2,000 per ton.
The “outside” (wells or closed loops) portion of the system is the usual higher geothermal cost factor. Home owner’s aesthetics and unique comfort requirements can also affect the installed costs.
Operating Costs
How much it will cost for heating and cooling depends on several factors; insulation, system efficiency, cost of fuel and its BTU content. For example, many homes use 45,000 - 85,000 BTUs per hour on a very cold winter day, and… about 125,000,000 BTUs per year. To compare a GHP against other systems you need to calculate the costs for BTUs - Please click here.