If you are like most people, you have been investigating alternative energies that can help to save you money while also reducing your impact on the environment. A geothermal heat pump (GHP) is one affective way to heat your home while also reducing your dependence on heating sources that can have a harmful impact on the environment–and on your pocketbook.

While geothermal heat pumps can be expensive to buy and install, there are many solid reasons to invest in them. Not only can they reduce your air pollution emissions by up to 44 percent over traditional heat pumps, but they can also reduce your heating expenses significantly each year.

The U.S. Department of Energy is dedicated to sharing information about the effectiveness and reliability of geothermal heat pump systems. Here are six of the benefits of buying and installing geothermal heat pump systems in your home that we think you’ll appreciate – no matter what your budget or environment conscience says:

1. Fits into any type of home. Whether you have a new home or an older home, you can easily get a geothermal heat pump system that fits perfectly into your home. You can not only select between your choice of new designs, but you can also have a heat pump that is retrofitted for your home. Geothermal units can generally use the same ductwork you already have installed in your home. Geothermal heat pump systems also take up less space than traditional HVAC systems, which means that you’ll need less space for your heat pump and can enjoy more space for other things.
2. Durability. You can feel confident that your geothermal heat pump system will last for years to come. They are not only easy to maintain, but they’re also very durable. In fact, the underground piping for your system will generally carry a warranty that lasts from 25 to 50 years. Plus, the units themselves generally last for about 20 years or more.
3. Comfort. In addition to the reduction in the price of hot water and energy use, you’ll also enjoy year-round comfort on other fronts. For example, geothermal heat pumps tend to be quieter than other heating systems and can improve your humidity control. Customers who use geothermal heat pump systems tend to have well over a 90 percent satisfaction with their units.
4. Reduced energy use. For many people, the low energy use associated with geothermal heat pump systems is one of the biggest and most compelling reasons for switching to a geothermal unit. Geothermal heat pumps use between 25 and 50 percent less energy than other types of heat pumps, which also helps to reduce your energy expenses and environmental impact. In fact, geothermal heat pumps use one unit of energy from electricity for every unit they get from the earth. If consumers install geothermal heat pump systems, it is estimated that they will save more than 6,000 kWh of energy per household, in one example.
5. Pay less for hot water. When you install a geothermal heat pump, you’ll pay less for hot water. In fact, geothermal heat pumps are the only units that can provide free hot water. The way geothermal heat pumps provide free hot water comes from the “desuperheater” device, which transfers excess heat from the heat pump compressor to the hot water tank. In most cases, you’ll get your hot water for free in the summer and for a significantly reduced price in the winter.
6. Low impact on the environment. These days, who isn’t concerned about their environmental impact? With geothermal heat pumps, you can enjoy a lower environmental impact while saving money. Because geothermal heat pump systems are so efficient, it takes less energy to use them than is required for traditional heat pump systems. In fact, you can save up to 44 percent of energy over traditional heat pump systems. Saved energy is saved money, too!

If you’re ready to save money, reduce your environmental impact, and start capitalizing off of the earth’s natural geothermal systems, then it’s time to take a closer look at the impact that a geothermal heat pump can have on your home. Also, it’s important to note that you may be eligible for tax credits that can help you to save more money than ever on your geothermal heat pump unit.

More good news coming up next week – stuff you can do by yourself around the house to be greener and richer!