<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=591165851039736&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">

How Do Geothermal Heat Pumps Work?

Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) work by transferring heat between your home and the stable temperature underground, rather than generating heat through combustion like traditional systems.

Just a few feet below the surface, the earth maintains a consistent temperature of 50–60°F year-round — warmer than the air in winter and cooler than the air in summer. Geothermal systems use this to their advantage for both heating and cooling.

 

home_wid_anim
Geothermal Heat Pump

Frequently Asked Questions

Ground Loop System

Closed-loop or open-loop pipes buried underground.

Circulates a water or antifreeze solution to absorb or dissipate heat.

Loops can be installed horizontally (for larger properties) or vertically (ideal for small lots or retrofits).

Heat Pump Unit

Located inside the home.

In heating mode: extracts heat from the ground and distributes it via ductwork or radiant systems.

In cooling mode: pulls heat from your home and releases it into the earth.

Distribution System

Just like a standard HVAC system, geothermal heat pumps use ducts, radiant floor systems, or fan coils to move air or water throughout the home.

Winter (Heating Mode):

The fluid in the ground loop absorbs heat from the earth.

The heat pump compresses the heat, raising the temperature.

Warm air or water is distributed throughout the home.

Summer (Cooling Mode):

The process reverses: heat is extracted from the indoor air.

That heat is transferred to the ground, which absorbs it.

Cooled air or chilled water is then circulated back into the home.

Although the initial cost is higher, geothermal systems pay for themselves over time through energy savings, incentives, and added property value. It’s one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make for long-term comfort and sustainability.

1. Lower Energy Bills

Geothermal systems use the earth’s natural temperature to operate, resulting in 30% to 70% savings on heating and 20% to 50% on cooling.

Most homeowners see a return on investment within 5 to 10 years, and then continue saving for decades.

2. Tax Credits & Incentives

As of 2025, homeowners can claim a 30% federal tax credit on geothermal system costs under the Inflation Reduction Act.

Many states and utility companies (like in PA and NJ) offer rebates or low-interest financing.

3. Durability and Low Maintenance

Underground loop systems last 50+ years.

Indoor components (like the heat pump unit) last 25+ years — much longer than traditional HVAC systems.

Fewer moving parts means lower maintenance costs over time.

4. Environmentally Friendly

Geothermal systems significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help homeowners transition to clean, renewable energy.

Each system can offset the equivalent of carbon from two cars per year.

5. Increases Home Value

Energy-efficient upgrades like geothermal are highly attractive to buyers.

Some studies suggest homes with geothermal or high-efficiency HVAC systems sell faster and for more.

Geothermal Statistics

300 to 500%
more efficient

compared to conventional systems. Geothermal Heat Pumps deliver 3 to 5 times more energy than they consume.

30%
Tax Credit

With the Inflation Reduction Act through 2032.

Up to 70%
Savings

On heating and cooling costs compared to conventional systems 

 

📉 Environmental Impact

Carbon Footprint:

A typical residential geothermal heat pump reduces greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 1.5 tons of CO₂ annually, equivalent to planting 200+ trees.

Renewable Energy Contribution:

Geothermal systems reduce reliance on fossil fuels, helping states and businesses meet net-zero and decarboniation goals.

Geothermal heat pumps can reduce your utility bills by up to 70%.

Let Us Show You How- Schedule Your Free Estimate

Save Energy. Save Money. Save the Planet.

With geothermal heating and cooling, you’ll cut costs and reduce your carbon footprint.