How Much Does a Geothermal System Cost?

This is by far the most common question and the toughest to answer. Every home is unique, and without performing a proper analysis, is very hard to answer how much a geothermal system will cost.

You will often hear “what is the price per ton?”, “I have a 2,500 sq ft house….how much will it cost”.

A properly estimated job by Comfortworks takes many items into factor, such as, how many systems and what size; what type of system (Trilogy 45 series, Tranquility 30 series, or Tranquility 22 series); package units or split systems; the length of ground loop required; how many duct runs; all metal ducting or flex ducting; any outdoor venting requirements for bathrooms, kitchens, and dryers; how many feet of inside piping; indoor air quality accessories (such as a Energy Recovery Ventilator); any other related accessories, etc…

Due to all of these factors there is no “price per ton” or “price per square foot”. All estimates from Comfortworks are FREE and also include a proper operating cost analysis to best compare the geothermal system to any other traditional system you are considering. We typically have our estimates back to you within 1-2 days.

Although we can’t say how much a geothermal system is going to cost you exactly until we view the plans and/or perform an on-site visit, we can help you better understand the cost of geothermal.

CAN I AFFORD GEOTHERMAL?
You can’t afford NOT to switch to a geothermal heating and cooling system.

Geothermal System Cost is an Investment
Geothermal systems cost more than traditional heating and air conditioning systems. However, geothermal systems are far more efficient than traditional systems, so geothermal can save you much more on your monthly utility bills for the lifetime of the system.

When you are pricing a geothermal heating and cooling systems, be sure to factor total lifetime savings into the equation. A quick cost analysis will quantifiably show that the benefits and savings far outweigh what geothermal costs to install.

Compare Savings to Geothermal Installation Cost
To accurately assess how much geothermal costs, include these savings and value-adds into your investment calculation:

 

  • Lower monthly utility bills – A geothermal system can reduce a home’s heating, cooling, and hot water bill by 50-80%.

  • Fewer HVAC maintenance costs – According to ASHRAE (American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers) Report 382-RP, the following maintenance cost averages per square foot have been documented:

Geothermal System: 23.9 ¢ / sq. ft.
Air Source Heat Pump: 28.9 ¢ / sq. ft.
Electric Furnace with A/C: 28.9 ¢ / sq. ft.   Fossil Furnace with A/C: 27.0 ¢ / sq. ft.

  • Longer equipment lifespan – Geothermal systems are not exposed to outdoor elements like most traditional heating and cooling methods and can last 20 years more as a result. Geothermal ground loops, when installed properly, will last at least 50 years.

  • Local utility rebates

  • Renewable energy tax deductions – There is a 30% federal tax credit applicable to the equipment and installation costs of a geothermal system.

  • Improved energy efficiency – Geothermal systems are 400-600% efficient whereas traditional heating and cooling methods range from 80-300% efficiency.

  • No greenhouse gas emissions – Unlike a traditional gas furnace, geothermal systems do not burn carbon emitting fossil fuels to produce heat.

  • Higher home resale value – Energy-efficient HVAC systems like geothermal increase a home’s property value.

  • Faster home sale – Homes with energy-efficient HVAC systems like geothermal are more attractive to potential buyers.

Refer to the table below for a cost comparison of a geothermal heating and cooling system vs. a traditional heating and air conditioning system based on a 2,000 sq ft home:

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