David Leonard, president of Evergreen Geothermal speaker

 Ron has known him for 5 years since installing one of Leonard’s geothermal systems. David noted that there are about 140 systems installed and working satisfactory because the instructions are being followed. David compared a heat pump to a refrigerator generating heat from newly stored items from the grocery store. A heat pump is doing a similar function with water pumped from a well in a continuous or “closed loop” which is the only type that David sells and installs.

Most systems are hot air systems that require air ducts. A popular bonus of this approach is that it enables air conditioning which is very popular. However, it is possible to just produce hot water  for existing baseboard and/or radiant floor heating systems.

Typically, system cost is between $35,000 & $55,000. There currently is a tax credit of 30%. David is presently installing a $40,000 system in a new 2400 square foot home in Freeport which will net out at $28,000.  A system will produce 4 watts for every watt of electricity. Annual cost will be between $1,000 and $1,500. 5 to 7 years is the anticipated payback period.

The only parts that might require eventual replacement is the heat pump itself which costs $2,500. It has a 10-year warranty.