Air Heat Pump VS Geothermal Heat Pump

The most expensive utility is the electric bill due to heating and cooling homes to make them comfortable. There are new technology advancements coming on the market every year, and some of them have been designed to save money and to lower emissions. The air heat pump has been available for years, as has the geothermal, but they are becoming more cost efficient as electricity becomes more expensive.

Air heat Pump VS Geothermal heat Pump

Air Heat Pump

• The air heat pump utilizes refrigerant and exchanger coils to heat the air as it passes over the coils. Regardless of the temperature outside, the air heat pump is able absorb some heat. The heat is then passed into the house; however, in areas where the temperature dips below negative 5 degrees, manufacturers recommend a backup electric or gas system. 


• The air heat pump is less expensive to install than the geothermal heat pump and will reduce electric bills. 


• The life-expectancy of the system is 20 years when maintained properly. 


• If the system is used to heat water in the home, there are some concerns with contamination due to insufficient water temperatures. 


• There is some advancement being made in the technologies that seem to indicate the air pump with future technology will be able to operate in the coolest climates without the need of a backup system.

Geothermal Heat Pump

• The geothermal heat pump gets the highest ratings from the EPA for the least amount of carbon (CO2) emissions. 


• The geothermal heating system uses ground water in a looped configuration to heat the home. 


• It’s more efficient because ground temperatures are more constant than air temperatures. It forces cool air out and draws the warm air into your home. 


• If it is equipped with a dual system, it can act as an air cooling system as well. 


• The system can pay for itself within the first two to five years. 


• Buyers should be aware that the geothermal system has the potential to heat all the water that a home requires while it’s working; however, you need a backup water heater during the spring and fall months when the system is not in use. 


• The life-expectancy for the system is 25 years for the indoor components and up to 50 years for the outside loop system.

Geothermal VS Air Heat Pump

• Both systems are eco-friendly, and both save money. 


• While the air source is less expensive to install and is the best system for warmer climates, the geothermal system is a better buy for colder climates and CO2 emissions. 


• There is hybrid available that uses both geothermal and air source heat pumps, which gives the buyer the best of both systems.