So you’re interested in upgrading your home’s new or existing HVAC system to a geothermal heat pump. Congratulations! Geothermal heat pumps are a great way to lower your heating and cooling costs while greening your overall energy consumption. You’ve probably already started researching what type of heat pump is right for you, which ground loop will suit your home, and how much the installation will cost. But there’s so much more to do before you install your heat pump. Here are four steps you should take before taking the leap and joining the geothermal heat pump community.
Step 1: Find the Best Geothermal Contractor
The very first step is to find the best geothermal contractor available. Depending on where you’re located, there are several resources you can use. We’ve got recommendations for Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec and New England geothermal contractors. If you live outside of these areas, use our Find a Dealer tool to locate a Nordic heat pump installer near you. Once you’ve found your installer, make sure to ask them these four key questions.
Step 2: Research Your Municipal Regulations
It’s important to know what regulations (if any) your municipality has around geothermal drilling. Some municipalities heavily regulate the process of geothermal drilling because there is an aquifer below the town that they are trying to protect. In some cases, you’ll need a special permit, and in some cases vertical drilling is prohibited completely. Whatever your situation may be, it’s important to have all of the facts before you start your installation.
Step 3: Research Heat Pump Rebates
The cost of a geothermal installation can be expensive. Fortunately, more and more provinces and cities are recognizing the economic and environmental benefits of the geothermal industry and want to support it. They do this by offering rebates, incentives, and financing solutions for geothermal heat pumps. Find out which incentives are available near you by checking out our energy efficiency tax credit web page.
Step 4: Research How Much Your Home’s Value Will Increase
If you’re getting a construction loan to finance your geothermal heat pump installation, your bank may want to know how a geothermal heat pump will affect your home’s value. A recent study in the UK concluded that homes with energy efficient upgrades sell faster and for higher prices than homes without. To get an exact value, contact a realtor who is familiar with green homes.
Installing a geothermal heat pump is an exciting time for any homeowner. You’re probably excited to enjoy low-cost heating, centralized cooling, and free domestic hot water. But before you jump, make sure that you do your homework to ensure you get a system that works for you.
Interested in learning more? Download our ebook: Homeowners Gain More than Heating and Cooling with Geothermal.