Q AND A
Q:Can a GSHP system be added to my fossil fuel furnace?
A: Yes. Called dual systems, they can easily be added to existing furnaces for those wishing to have a dual-fuel heating system. Dual-fuel systems use the GSHP system as the main heating source, and a fossil fuel furnace as a supplement in extremely cold weather should additional heat be needed.
Q: Will I have to add insulation to my home if I install one of these systems?
A: Ground source heat pump systems will reduce your heating and cooling costs regardless of how well your home is insulated. However, insulating and weatherizing are key factors in gaining the maximum amount of savings from any type of heating and cooling system.
Q: My yard contains many shade trees. Will this affect ground temperature and my ability to use it as an energy source?
A: Not at all. The system is installed deep enough that it utilizes constant ground temperature.
Q: Will an underground loop affect my lawn or landscape?
A: No. Research has shown that loops have no adverse effects on grass, trees, or shrubs. Most horizontal installations require trenches about six inches wide. Temporary bare areas can be restored with grass seed or sod. Vertical loops require little space and do not damage lawns signifcantlyQ: Will my existing ductwork function with this system?
A: Yes, in most cases. Your dealer or installer will be able to determine ductwork requirements and if any minor modifications are needed. A ground-source heating and cooling system can be installed in new construction or retrofitted to an existing installation. It can be configured for forced air or radiant floor heat, or a combination of both.Heating bills are instantly reduced by over 60% when a ground-source heat pump system replaces an old oil or gas furnace.
In hot weather the ground-source heat pump system delivers central air conditioning, without anyadditional equipment purchase.
Q:How long will a grid tied solar system last?
A:About 30 years.The panel s themselve s are typically warrantied for 25 years . Q:Will the electric company buy my excess if my system produces more than I use? A:Yes but they will pay you less than it is worth. A properly designed grid tied solar system will tpiically not produce more than you use.
Q:Can I get rid of the electric company?
A:Yes but that is called off grid and not as cost effective as grid tied solar. With off grid you need a battery bank. Batteries are expensive and last about seven years tops. Think of the power company as a 100% efficient battery that never goes bad.
Q:What is the payback period on a renewable energy investment?
A: Most experts use a conservative 5% yearly inflation rate for utility electric rates. Using a 5% annual utility inflation rate, a residential solar PV system that qualifies for a state grant and the federal tax credit, would pay for itself in approximately 6 to 9 years. A commercial solar PV system has a much faster payback period because the 30% federal tax credit is not capped, For solar thermal, a domestic hot water systems usually takes 10 - 12 years to pay back. The Solar thermal technology to heat a swimming pool can pay for itself in as little as 3 - 4 years.The difference in the cost between the fossil fuel heating/central air and ground-source is completely paid off within the first 3 to 5 years, The shortest pay back for our region.
