How does geothermal compare to a conventional oil furnace?
A geothermal system is actually a 3 for 1 deal: heat, central air and hot water. The heating element operates at a higher efficiency than an oil furnace and is cheaper to operate. However, a conventional oil furnace is less costly to install than a geothermal heating system. There is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when using geothermal heat, no need for fuel storage, and no fire hazard from combustion. As an added benefit, geothermal heating is much more environmentally friendly and, as a result, several government incentives are offered, including tax credits and low-interest loans.
