Long Island Geothermal Heating & Cooling: 2025 Homeowner Guide

Why Geothermal Makes Sense for Long Island Homes

Long Island homeowners are looking for ways to cut utility bills and reduce reliance on oil or gas systems. Geothermal heating and cooling systems use the constant temperature beneath the ground to heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer. That means lower operating costs, consistent comfort, and a smaller carbon footprint.

How Geothermal Works

A geothermal system transfers heat between your home and the earth using underground loops.

• Vertical loops: Installed in drilled boreholes; perfect for smaller suburban lots.

• Horizontal loops: Spread out in trenches; ideal for properties with more land. Inside the home, a heat pump moves energy through ducts or radiant systems just like traditional HVAC.

Home & Lot Requirements

Most Long Island homes can support geothermal with either vertical or horizontal systems. Key factors include:

• Yard size and soil type

• Access for drilling or trenching equipment

• Existing ductwork or radiant setup inside the home

Installation Timeline

While every project is different, most geothermal installations follow a clear path:

1. Site assessment – Evaluate yard space, soil conditions, and home needs.

2. System design – Determine loop configuration and pump sizing.

3. Drilling or trenching – Install loops in the ground.

4. Indoor installation – Connect heat pump, ductwork, and electrical systems.

5. Commissioning – Final testing and homeowner training.

Typical projects run 3–7 days, depending on complexity.

Costs, Savings & Payback

Up-front geothermal costs are higher than traditional HVAC, but operating costs are significantly lower:

• Energy savings of 30–70% compared to oil, propane, or electric resistance heating.

• Long-term payback, often 5–10 years, depending on home size and energy rates.

• Loops last 50+ years, and heat pumps typically last 20–25 years with proper maintenance.

Rebates & Incentives in 2025

PSEG Long Island offers rebates to make geothermal more affordable:

• $1,500 per ton of installed capacity

• $3,000 per ton for income-eligible households

Example: A typical 3-ton system earns $4,500 back, or $9,000 if you qualify for income-eligible incentives

These rebates, combined with federal tax credits, can dramatically reduce your upfront costs.

Noise, Maintenance & Lifespan

Geothermal systems are nearly silent compared to outdoor AC compressors. Maintenance needs are minimal—just annual inspections and filter changes. Because most of the system is underground, there are fewer parts exposed to weather or wear.

Is Geothermal Right for You?

Geothermal may not be the right fit for every home:

• Limited yard access can make drilling difficult.

• High upfront costs may be a barrier without rebates or financing. In those cases, modern high-efficiency oil or gas systems may be alternatives.

Why Choose Eastern Environmental

At Eastern Environmental, we’re more than just an installer. Our team combines environmental contracting expertise with HVAC installation knowledge. That means we handle:

• Permits and filings

• Safe drilling and soil management

• Tank retirement if you’re switching from oil

• End-to-end project management

With more than 20 years serving Nassau and Suffolk homeowners, we understand the unique needs of Long Island properties.

FAQs

What rebates are available for geothermal on Long Island? PSEG Long Island currently offers $1,500 per ton (or $3,000 per ton income-eligible).

How long does installation take? Most systems are installed in 3–7 days, depending on site conditions.

Do I need a large yard? No—vertical loop systems allow geothermal on smaller suburban lots.

What’s the lifespan of a geothermal system? Loops: 50+ years. Heat pump unit: 20–25 years with proper maintenance.

Ready to Explore Geothermal?

If you’re interested in geothermal heating and cooling, or want to know if your property is a good candidate, contact Eastern Environmental today for a free assessment.