Help! - We are planning to build a new home near Annapolis, MD. I ...

HOMEOWNER CRIES FOR HELP...

posted: September 8th, 2008 - 2:04pm

QUESTION:
We are planning to build a new home near Annapolis, MD. I am just starting to investigate geothermal heat pump systems. It has been mentioned quite a few times that up front costs are more - how much more (in percentages or costs)?
The house will be around 4000 sq.ft. with 2800 on first floor and 1200 on the second floor. We will have an unfinished basement that may get finished in the future (but not for quite a few years). I am just trying to get a feel for the difference between a geothermal system and a heat pump with oil backup system - there is no natural gas. We have plenty of land. Also - are there restrictions with regard to septic systems and wells?

ANSWER: We are doing a similarly sized house right now, just in middle tennessee. If you insulate it right and keep it tight, you can add approx $10,000 to the cost of your mechanical system.
Wells are the more efficient way to go and the difference in wells and horizontal ground loops is included in the 10 K. There are no restrictions regarding septic and wells other than separation. You have to be at least fifty feet away from your water supply well and you must stay out of your approved septic and septic reserve areas. Now you have the energy system difference. How you apply the heating and cooling in the house is another matter. One problem is finding a responsible contractor that has the knowledge to design and install a system of this type. Many are afraid of these systems but often your well driller will know the people who can do it right.