Will My Geothermal System Be Enough This Winter?

There are many myths online about geothermal heating systems, which can confuse the facts for Cincinnati homeowners. One myth is that geothermal heating systems just aren’t enough to keep homes warm when outdoor temperatures are extremely low.

These systems aren’t cheap to install; homeowners want to know for sure that geothermal will keep them warm before the purchase. We’d like to dispel this myth and reassure you that a geothermal heating system will certainly keep you warm this winter.

Air Source vs. Ground Source

The heat pump is an important component of the geothermal heating system. Not all heat pumps are the same, which may be the cause of some confusion. Air source heat pumps pull warmth from the air outdoors to heat your home, and in extremely cold temperatures, there may not be enough available heat to meet your indoor heating demands.

Geothermal heat pumps draw heat from below ground. Underground temperatures stay steadily between 45 and 55 degrees all year round, no matter how cold the temperature above ground is. There is plenty of energy below ground to provide heating for your home all season long.

Backup Heat

If your geothermal heating system is sized properly for your home, a backup heating system won’t be necessary! Geothermal heat pumps already have electrical auxiliary heating units, which are meant to keep you warm if a problem with your geothermal system occurs. They are not installed because there is a regular need for backup heat due to low temperatures. To make sure your geothermal system will be sized properly for your home, it is best to work with a qualified contractor when having your system installed.

Air source heat pump systems often have backup heating systems in regions where winter temperatures can drop extremely low. Since people may not realize the difference between air source and geothermal systems, they may assume geothermal heating systems require backup heating as well.

If you have questions about your Cincinnati geothermal heating system, please don’t hesitate to call us. Nelson Comfort will be happy to assist you.

About The Author

Dan Detmer

Dan Detmer is the owner of Nelson Comfort. Dan was born into the heating and cooling industry, coming from a family of well respected HVAC contractors in Dayton, Ohio. After working in the family business, Dan decided to work for a local HVAC wholesale business helping local contractors grow their business. When he felt his heart moving him back into the residential and light commercial business, Dan joined the Mortimer Heating & Cooling team in Cincinnati, where he had called home and become part of the community for several years. After a short period of time Dan purchased the company and created what is today, Nelson Comfort. Today he operates a company based on integrity, honesty, and stellar customer service. If you have any questions feel free to tweet (at sign) NelsonComfort and we will get right back with you!