About Geothermal

Should you consider a geothermal heating & cooling system? This page will give an overview of what factors to consider when deciding whether geothermal is right for your home. You’ll also gain a basic understanding of how geothermal works.

What is a Geothermal System?

Geothermal systems take advantage of the renewable energy found in the earth to heat and cool your home. They consist of three main components:

1. Ground Loop System – pipe that transfers heat between the earth and your heat pump unit
2. Heat Pump Unit – directs the flow of heat to your home. In heating mode, heat is pumped into your home. In cooling mode, it is pumped out of your home.
3. Distribution System – your ventilation system, in-floor heat, hot water tank, or other heating/cooling distribution method

Is Geothermal Right for Me?

Consider: Cost

Geothermal systems are more expensive to install, but less expensive to run. This means that your initial investment will be higher, but you will save money over the long term. Financing is available  to help with installation costs.

Initial Costs

• System cost – your provider can help you decide which system best fits your home’s needs and your financial needs
• Installation costs – we will help you determine what setup works best for your environment
• Maintenance fees – we carry Hydron Module geothermal systems that are designed to last 20-24 years in comparison with conventional systems which are expected to last 13-15 years

Ongoing Costs

• Running the heat pump costs 50-70% lower than conventional heating/cooling systems (source), resulting in significant cost savings over the long run

Saving Money With Financial Incentives

You can save on geothermal with financial incentives available from the Manitoba and Canada Government.

• Efficiency Manitoba – New construction and heating system replacements may be eligible for up to $2.50/sq. ft. heated by a geothermal system; or $120/MBH of installed heating capacity; or $120/MBH of the building’s eligible base transmission and infiltration heating load (source)
• Canada Greener Homes Grant – provides homeowners up to $5,600. This includes $600 to cover home evaluations, and up to $5,000 for implementing retrofits such as geothermal pumps, insulation, windows, doors, and air seals (source)
• Manitoba Green Energy Tax Credit – a 15% tax credit on the remainder of the capital costs of the geothermal system (excluding the heat pump) if the installer is certified by the Manitoba Geothermal Energy Alliance (source)

Consider: Comfort

Temperature changes are more gradual compared to conventional heating and cooling systems. Avoiding sudden temperature changes improves overall home comfort.

Consider: The Environment

Installing in a typical home is the equivalent greenhouse gas reduction of planting an acre of trees, or taking two cards off the road.

No fossil fuels are burned to operate the unit, and it requires very little electricity compared to conventional systems.

To summarize, geothermal systems can help you save on energy costs in the long run. The up front costs can be reduced using financial incentives, and you can enjoy an environmentally-friendly way to heat and cool your home.

Further Reading

• Manitoba Hydro – Geothermal heat pump systems
• Hydron Module – Geothermal Facts & Benefits