YOUR COMMENTS

There's a company out there that has developed a 'non-geothermal' heat pump-no digging, and it works to less than 0F-from (Where else) Maine, called the Hallowell Heat Pump-google it, it's a real game-changer....
- Jim B, Manchester

We're the lucky ones that built in Alton and put Geo in. The key is proper insulation to maintain the temp. We love it so far. As for insurance, our yearly bill will be less than 500 bucks. Considering there is no combustion in the home, it should be cheaper!
- Steve, Alton Bay

It's not new to NH and Insurance isn't a problem (it's safer than other systems). And you can use a pond, or other ground source loops. Check out northeastgeo.com.

Home owners can also receive a break on the supply of electricity if they sign up for the Heat Smart Program.
- Richard, Bow

Geothermal may be new in NH, but has been used in the southwest for quite sometime. Insurance companies are use to this method of heating and cooling..
- Mike, Portsmouth

One question for those at SNHU contemplating that move: where's the money for it coming from? Out of the pockets of students and their parents, I bet. As if a college education doesn't cost enough now!
- guyplante, Manchester N

Good luck finding an insurance company to insure a home with this type of heating. Anything new like this scares them and they dont want to take the risk. This is a great technology for heating our homes and the insurance companies should take a good look at it.
- Sandy, Plastow

Geothermal heat pumps are wonderful, but the obvious problem in the Granite State is, well, granite.

With the smaller lot sizes typically found in New England, geothermal systems have to go vertical: that means drilling, very often in hard rock. That's expensive, as anyone with a water well can tell you. The payback period is longer, but it's definitely worth the investment if you plan to be in the home long-term. Even if you're not, it's a great selling point. House buyers definitely check the heating costs!

Not mentioned in the article is the fact that a geothermal system provides air conditioning practically free of charge (if you have forced air). The only energy cost is the circulating pump and the blower motor.
- Kevin, Lancaster