Geothermal Energy Installers in Erie, Pennsylvania
Few HVAC specialists are as busy as geothermal energy installers in Erie, Pennsylvania. Geothermal has taken center stage as more homeowners seek cost-cutting energy alternatives to power their homes.
Although less popular or budget-friendly than solar or wind, geothermal energy has an impressive return on investment and is better for the environment. Likewise, since heat gets pulled from underground, there is an endless energy supply to power homes.
If you’re an Erie resident interested in installing renewable energy, keep reading to learn more about geothermal energy installers in your area.
Geothermal Developments in Pennsylvania
Natural gas from the Marcellus Shale makes up most of Pennsylvania’s energy portfolio. The state achieved a whopping 7.6 trillion cubic feet in 2021, making it the second-largest natural gas producer nationwide behind Texas.
However, geothermal development is also on the rise in Pennsylvania. In Philadelphia, the Ronald McDonald House, New Jersey’s Stockton State College, the German Society of Pennsylvania and the city police academy are all powered by geothermal energy. The German Society, in particular, is a 20,000-square-foot Victorian house built in 1829, now powered with clean and comfortable heating and cooling.
Geothermal can promote grid stability and boost the local economy with green jobs. There is also much profitability for private and public investors of geothermal.
While geothermal is in its infancy, Pennsylvania is maximizing its potential as a reliable electricity source. Homeowners and businesses can use geothermal reserves to power structures throughout the state.
The Pennsylvania State University is currently exploring ways to harness geothermal using abandoned oil and gas wells as the state moves further away from fossil fuels. Sealing or not sealing abandoned wells is controversial. Unsealed wells could leak methane or other harmful gases. However, if you can repurpose them for clean energy, it could have tremendous environmental and financial benefits.
How Much Does Geothermal Energy Cost?
Installing a geothermal heat pump isn’t cheap. In fact, the initial price often scares off most homeowners. It is important to remember that the return on investment is significant and immediate, though.
Homeowners spend about $32,000 for an entire geothermal system, sometimes more. However, a lot gets factored into the cost — the type of loop system you buy, excavation, location, ground conditions and the equipment manufacturer.
Fortunately, homeowners may be eligible for federal tax credits to offset expenses. The Inflation Reduction Act extended the 30% tax credit for energy projects until January 1, 2033. You could also look into state incentives or ask your geothermal contractor if product rebates are available.
Is Geothermal Energy Worth the Price?
Considering the high cost of installing a geothermal heating system at your residence, you’ll likely want to weigh the pros and cons. After all, it’s a lot of money to dish out. While it is expensive, there are apparent advantages to pursuing this alternative energy source.
Homeowners who install geothermal heat pumps reap the following benefits:
- Heat pumps have little noise or visual impact on communities.
- Geothermal heat has flowed continuously for 4.5 billion years and will continually replenish itself.
- Geothermal power plants use only 404 meters squared — a much smaller footprint than other power sources. Comparably, coal requires 3,642 m2, while wind and solar need 1,334 m2 and 3,237 m2, respectively.
- They produce zero emissions — four times less than solar and six to 20 times less than natural gas.
- As closed systems, geothermal heat pumps need infrequent maintenance.
Of course, the most appealing is the return on investment. An Energy Star-rated system uses 61% less energy, amounting to $830 annually in savings — about $9,500 over the product’s life span of 15 years.
Disadvantages of Geothermal Energy
Homeowners can expect a few shortcomings for every advantage of geothermal heat pumps. It is essential to consider each of the cons when deciding whether geothermal is best for your household’s energy demands.
Fortunately for Pennsylvania residents, the state is situated on a highly active geothermal reserve. Some parts of the U.S. do not have sufficient access to geothermal energy.
Despite being better for the environment than other energy sources, geothermal is not entirely sustainable. Greenhouse gases could escape from belowground into the atmosphere. Reservoirs also usually have traces of toxic heavy metals like arsenic and mercury.
In extreme cases, drilling for geothermal energy could induce earthquakes and ground instability. A geothermal energy installer will have to inspect your property to determine whether installing a geothermal heat pump is feasible.
Where Can You Find Geothermal Energy Installers in Erie?
Are you looking for reputable geothermal energy installers in Erie? Residents have several companies to choose from to meet their installation needs. Here are four well-known HVAC contractors specializing in geothermal.
JC Mechanical
You may have heard of JC Mechanical before — the company serves all of western New York, Niagara Falls and Erie. You can ensure your geothermal project is in excellent hands with a fully trained, Nate-certified and accredited staff.
JC Mechanical technicians have ample experience in alternative energy for residential and commercial properties. The company oversees equipment sales, service, installation and maintenance and is available for emergencies 24 hours daily.
Rathmann Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
A family-owned business, Rathmann Plumbing & Heating, Inc. has over 25 years of experience installing and maintaining geothermal heating systems. Its trusted employees are well-trained in using the company’s equipment and creating computer-generated drawings for each unique installation project.
Typically, Rathmann installs closed-loop horizontal trenched-in pipe systems due to their 50-year guaranteed life span and infrequent maintenance requirements.
Nerthling’s Heating and Air Conditioning
Carl Nerthling founded Nerthling’s Heating and Air Conditioning over 60 years ago, steadfast in running a trustworthy business, offering fair prices and delivering quality service.
Nerthling carries Carrier geothermal equipment — a top brand for geothermal heating systems. Homeowners may be eligible for financing to invest in their home’s new geothermal heat pump without going over budget.
Chuck Ollinger Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
Chuck Ollinger Plumbing, Heating & Cooling has served Erie and the surrounding area for over 55 years. Spanning three generations of experienced HVAC professionals, it delivers superior customer service and care.
You can count on Chuck Ollinger to show up in an emergency regardless of the hour. The company’s most reliable geothermal contractors are available whenever you’re ready to start your project.
Choose Geothermal in Erie, Pennsylvania
Erie residents have plenty of options for providing energy to their homes. Why not hop on the geothermal train early and reap the rewards of clean, reliable power? Geothermal energy installers in Erie are ready at the helm to help you with your geothermal project.