Why geothermal isn't ubiquitous and how it might get that way

Re:Why geothermal isn't ubiquitous and how it might get that... by SEJeff on Thursday July 08, 2021 @03:55PM (#27776864)

Not sure if you were aware, but the cost of building materials such as wood and also hvac has went up massively. The same central heating and air units a year ago would have cost maybe 20k with a full install. We got three quotes for three different firms that do geothermal.

And as I mentioned elsewhere, if I installed a horizontal loop, I'd have to cut down a ton of beautiful 100 year old trees surrounding the home. I'd rather not do that when there are viable alternatives. The cost of higher electricity usage isn't a big deal as I've got 48 bifacial solar panels on the barn that run to the home.

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Re:Why geothermal isn't ubiquitous and how it might get that... by hourislate on Thursday July 08, 2021 @05:19PM (#27777742)

Consider closed cell spray foam and you will probably make out better with a traditional high efficiency system than you would with geothermal and regular insulation. If you went with geothermal and spray foam your heating and cooling/comfort costs would be less than someones Starbucks habit but I can understand the initial cost might not make sense for some folks.

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Re:Why geothermal isn't ubiquitous and how it might get that... by SEJeff on Thursday July 08, 2021 @05:24PM (#27777784)

I've got a looooot of solar panels, so the electricity is "effectively" free. This is good advice though, thanks!

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