Save money at what cost?
According to the experts, the installation cost is the only reason geothermal systems are not already widely used. For a home measuring 139 to 186 square metres (1,500 to 2,000 feet), this system (warm-air heating and air conditioning) costs between $18,000 and $25,000, or roughly $7,000 to $10,000 more than a traditional central-heating system.
That said, a geothermal system presents a huge advantage in that the investment can be recovered in five to 10 years. And you will continue to save several hundred dollars a year long after it has finished paying for itself. There are financial-assistance programs for homeowners intent on installing a geothermal system. Natural
Resources Canada offers a maximum grant of $3,500, provided that the installation is carried out by an accredited contractor.
Qualified contractor an absolute must
Up to now, mandatory training and certification have not been required to install geothermal systems. However, effective January 1, 2008, all installations must be certified by the Canadian GeoExchange Coalition – all the more reason to choose a certified contractor, particularly if you intend to apply for a grant. This way, you can be sure that the contractor – like the drill operator – holds a valid licence and has the proper liability insurance and the experience necessary. An experienced contractor must know, for example, how to precisely calculate the number of metres that must be drilled for home heating and air conditioning, while taking into account the quality of the home's insulation.
The Canadian GeoExchange Coalition offers training in geothermics; you can contact the coalition for the names of contractors who have taken the training course. Initially reserved for installers and drill operators, the course is now available to designers of residential and commercial systems.
Natural Resources Canada advises people to contact at least three certified contractors for a written estimate of the work to be done. Once you choose a contractor, the contract you sign with him should include: an analysis of the job; the work to be done at each stage; a list of the equipment required; the cost of materials and labour; and a payment schedule. And don't forget to read the contractor's warranty. In general, contractors offer a one-year warranty on parts and labour, while the manufacturer's warranty may vary between five and 10 years for labour and the heat pump, which has a lifespan of roughly 20 years. As for the pipes, they are often guaranteed for 25 years or more.
RESOURCES
Canadian GeoExchange Coalition
514-807-7559
Natural Resources Canada publishes Residential Earth Energy Systems: A Buyer's Guide. To order a free copy, call 1-800-387-2000
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1 Comment
Anything that is even remotely Government authorized, approved, suggested, affilitated etc.....is enough for me to say "thank you, but no thank you I think I shall pass". Call me stupid, naive or skeptical suit yourself; but I have little confidence in what some Government Researcher is telling me. I would bet if the theory or system is faulty, you will be 'left out hung to dry'..... or at least your bank account will be. That is my take on the subject!