Alternative Heating and Cooling Systems

Alternatives to gas and electrical operated heating and cooling systems are numerous. Two popular alternatives for household heating and air are solar energy and geothermal systems. Some alternatives to electric- and gas-powered systems can prove to not only be more cost effective but, also help protect over consumption of the earth's natural resources.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling

The two types of geothermal energy are high and low grade. High-grade energy originates as a result of the heat created by the Earth's pressure. Low-grade energy is is found in the Earth's crust. Geothermal heating is a ground-source heating pump that taps into the ground and delivers heat energy into buildings or homes. This method allows for much less energy to be used and does not create the excess of pollutants or energy shortage concerns. Geothermal heating and cooling is considered a natural, renewable source for energy. Installation requires a large sum of money upfront and the success of the system depends upon the terrain of the building site.

Solar Heating and Cooling

Solar electric systems use sunlight as their energy source vs. the Earth heat source used by the geothermal systems. The energy from the Sun is then absorbed into a module and converted into a directed source of heat energy. The systems can be placed on a roof, ground or even be built into walls and sky lights. Solar electric systems tend to be cost effective for lower-level consumption but, it tends to be more expensive for those being supplied through a large-scale utility company. Solar electric power plants only receive electricity when the Sun shines, a so managing available electricity can create problems.

Simple Alternatives

Even if one does not have funds available to install a new alternative heating and cooling system some simple, more cost effective measure may be employed. Upgrading a system that is 10+ years old is much less expensive and can save tremendously on daily heating and cooling costs. Newer models are often more environmentally friendly so it can help reduce emissions as well. Another simple solution can be the use of a basic ceiling fan. During the summer ceiling fans will use much less electricity than an A/C unit and will also help to circulate air produced by a higher-set thermostat.

Cost Comparison

Geothermal systems for an average-sized home cost around $7,500. Installation also requires drilling, which can run between $10,000 and $30,000 depending on the terrain. Solar heating systems can typically be installed on a home for around $5,000 but requires battery and generator backup.

Statistics

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) published data in 2008 that reported the nation's energy usage breakdown: 37 percent was petroleum usage, 24 percent natural gas, 23 percent coal, 9 percent nuclear electric and 7 percent renewable energy (1 percent of that being solar, 34 percent hydroelectric, 5 percent geothermal, 53 percent biomass, 7 percent wind).

References

• Alternative Heating and Cooling; What Is Geothermal Heat?
• Solar Energy Systems; Solar Heating and Cooling
• EIA's Energy in Brief: How much renewable energy do we use?