Replies

1. 
   Dave_Richeson | Mar 04, 2002 07:46pm | #1

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   jim;

   You are going to get some replys on this one. First go to the top of the page and look in the Energy folder. You will find several discussions on various geothermal system. You can also do a search on geothermal and pick up several of the older threads that have dropped off of the main board.

   Now with that out of the way, and saying I am not an HVAC contractor, I'll give you MHO.

   I built my father in laws home in 1981 and 82. It is a 2700 sq. ft. ranch with a 2500 sq, ft. walk out all electric home. An energy audit by the local utility at the time of construction predicted a lower monthly cost for geothermal operation than a standard air to air heat pump or propane gas furnace and central a/c.
   They were correct. In the ten years of occupancy the geothermal unit has beat thier prediction by several $$ on average every year. This is a Water Furnace 5 ton system and other than a problem with the de-super heater pump to the water heater they have had no other problems. Granted we are one of the lowest energy cost states in the country and don't have the volatility that CA has, but I think it was one of the best recommendations I have ever made to them(probably the only one that hasn't bitten me in the butt).

   My house is going up right next door to them, and I am using geothermal. There are several others here that also have geothermal systems, and I am sure they will chime in.

   Dave

1. 
   Cloud_Hidden | Mar 05, 2002 12:33am | #2

   *Ops will probably move this to the Energy folder, so don't be surprised if it's not where you look for it.Owner/Builder. First mate for HVAC contractor when we installed mine. I was there helping on every step. 2 years operating, no problems, no maintenance. Speced to 4.5 tons and operating at over 5. So far, all systems go. What else would you like to know?Jim