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Efficiency Face-Off: Air Source Heat Pumps vs Geothermal Heat Pumps

For homeowners currently deciding how to power energy-efficient heating and cooling in their homes, air source heat pumps and geothermal heat pumps are a popular choice. While this may seem like a no-brainer to most, it’s all too common to get stuck deciding between which device makes a better fit. 

Air Source Heat Pumps Vs Geothermal Heat Pumps

If you find yourself losing sleep about which heat pump will serve you better, our blog this week does a rundown of the pros and cons of each device. Take a look below and determine whether your home needs an air source heat pump or geothermal device for exceptional heating, cooling, hot water and more!

Climate adaptability

For those new to the finer workings of heat pumps, discovering that climate plays an important role in the selection of the best device, may be surprising.

Choosing the right system for your home, however, heavily depends on the climate that you live in. In countries such as Australia that experience a rich variety of weather conditions, selecting a device that totes high ratings of climate adaptability is, therefore, important.

In this regard, geothermal heat pumps are the clear winner.

Owing to system design and placement - pipes buried far under the ground - geothermal heat pumps are more impervious to weather changes, compared to air source heat pumps.

For homeowners in areas where the weather seems erratic, therefore, the former is the better choice.

Winner: geothermal heat pumps

Affordability

For homeowners with their mind geared entirely towards affordability, which heat pumps represent the most cost-effective in terms of purchase price.

While long-term savings are usually a considerable component in determining how cost-effective each device, this section focuses solely on which system is more affordable at the outset.

In this arena, air source heat pumps prove to be superior.

Given that geothermal heat pumps are likely to require more upfront cost owing to the number of outdoor components and the trenching required. For individuals a little stuck for cash, therefore, air source device proves to be a compelling option.

Winner: air source heat pumps

Energy efficiency

Arguably among the most important considerations, energy efficiency is, arguably, the first factor homeowners look into before choosing a heat pump.

In this regard, which is the most efficient - air source heat pumps or geothermal heat pumps?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air source devices can reach heating efficiency levels of 300%, while geothermal pumps can hit values of up to 400-500%. Given that they do not burn fuel or use electricity to produce heat, these devices are among the most energy-efficient multi-purpose climate devices on the market.

Based on the above facts, therefore, geothermal heat pumps are the superior contender when it comes to a higher energy efficiency.

Winner: geothermal heat pumps

Spacing requirements

For many homeowners, spacing, interior design, and landscaping are important features of their home.

When it comes to the installation of devices like heat pumps, therefore, determining how they fit within a space is an important factor. In this regard, air source heat pumps require very little space either indoors or outdoors.

While geothermal devices are seemingly invisible owing to their underground setup, these systems require significant ground space. For properties with limited outdoor spacing, therefore, ground source pumps may not be a feasible option.

Winner: air source heat pumps

Key takeaways

In the timeless battle between geothermal devices and air source heat pumps, the superior system can be hard to determine.

With each excelling in categories ranging from energy efficiency to spacing, a careful assessment of your own needs is a crucial prerequisite to succeed in making the right choice.

Considering the factors set out above, geothermal heat pumps are the superior choice for property owners that can afford. For those a little stuck for cash and space, air source heat pumps are the more cost-effective option.

Regardless of your decision, heat pumps are truly some of the most energy-efficient heating, cooling, and hot water solutions on the market. Check out our website for a range of devices that are mean, green, and supreme from start to finish.

Find out more about the best hardware for your property!

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