Geothermal technology, or that related to the heat of the earth, has gained greater attention when it comes to creating comfort heating and cooling in residential and commercial applications. "It continues to grow," said Robert Fogarty, a performance contracting sales engineer for Honeywell. In both residential and commercial applications, the primary appeal is to those who have a long-term commitment to the structure for housing or as a business investment, he said.
Another key factor is a facility setting that provides for a suitable well field. In rural settings, Fogarty said, natural gas may not be readily available, all-electric heating-cooling may be too costly, and LP gas is not something the owner wants to consider.