Introduction: Why Hybrid Systems Matter
For decades, homeowners and businesses have relied on separate systems to manage heating, cooling, and hot water needs. Furnaces, air conditioners, and water heaters often work independently, taking up space, consuming significant amounts of energy, and requiring ongoing maintenance.
But what if there was one system that could do it all—more efficiently, more sustainably, and with long-term savings?
Enter the GeoSmart Combo Unit. This innovative geothermal system combines air and water technology to deliver heating, cooling, and hot water in one compact package. It’s the ideal solution for Alberta’s extreme climate, offering year-round comfort while reducing both costs and carbon footprints.
At Envirotech Geothermal, we’ve been bringing advanced geothermal solutions like the GeoSmart Combo Unit to Alberta homeowners since 2006. Let’s dive into why this system is a true game-changer.
What Are GeoSmart Combo Units?
GeoSmart Combo Units are dual-function geothermal systems that integrate both air distribution and water-to-water technology. This hybrid design allows them to deliver:
- Warm air for heating in winter.
- Cool air for air conditioning in summer.
- Hot water for domestic use and radiant heating systems.
Instead of relying on separate appliances, the Combo Unit combines these functions seamlessly, making it one of the most versatile geothermal systems available today.
How Do GeoSmart Combo Units Work?
The system harnesses the renewable energy stored underground, where the earth’s temperature remains relatively constant year-round.
- Ground Loop – Pipes buried underground circulate a water-based solution, absorbing and transferring geothermal energy.
- Heat Pump – The Combo Unit’s compressor moves this energy into the home or building.
- Air Distribution – Warm or cool air is delivered through ductwork, just like a furnace or air conditioner.
- Water-to-Water Function – Simultaneously, the unit can provide hot water for domestic use (showers, sinks) or hydronic heating (in-floor radiant systems).
This hybrid approach means that one system can cover virtually all of your energy needs.
Heating in Alberta Winters
Alberta winters are harsh, with temperatures that can remain below freezing for months. Traditional systems like furnaces depend on fossil fuels, leading to high bills and fluctuating costs.
The GeoSmart Combo Unit uses the earth’s stored heat to deliver consistent, reliable warmth. By tapping into geothermal energy, it avoids the efficiency losses associated with outdoor air-source heat pumps and maintains performance even in extreme cold.
Cooling in the Summer
When the summer sun beats down, comfort can quickly come at a cost. Air conditioners often struggle with efficiency, consuming large amounts of electricity.
The Combo Unit reverses its process: it extracts heat from your home and deposits it back into the cooler earth. This results in:
- Lower energy consumption.
- Quieter operation compared to conventional AC units.
- Steady, even cooling throughout the home.
Hot Water Production
One of the biggest advantages of the Combo Unit is its ability to generate domestic hot water.
- Provides hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing.
- Supports radiant in-floor heating, one of the most comfortable and efficient forms of home heating.
- Reduces or eliminates the need for a separate water heater, saving space and maintenance costs.
This “all-in-one” design ensures that no energy is wasted—excess heat from the system is captured and redirected for water heating.
Efficiency Ratings: Up to 500%
Efficiency is where geothermal really shines. The GeoSmart Combo Unit can achieve efficiency ratings of 400–500%, meaning:
- For every 1 unit of electricity consumed, the system delivers up to 5 units of heating or cooling.
- Compared to furnaces (95% efficient) or boilers (70–90% efficient), the Combo Unit is vastly superior.
- Homeowners can save up to 70% on energy bills.
This level of performance makes the Combo Unit one of the most cost-effective and environmentally responsible HVAC options available.
Benefits of GeoSmart Combo Systems
1. Versatility
One system handles heating, cooling, and hot water—simplifying home comfort.
2. Compact Design
Replaces multiple appliances with one unit, freeing up valuable space.
3. Energy Efficiency
With efficiency up to 500%, operating costs are dramatically lower.
4. Sustainability
No fossil fuels, reduced emissions, and a smaller carbon footprint.
5. Reliability
Built for long-term use, often lasting 20–25 years with minimal maintenance.
Combo Units vs. Single-Function Systems
| Feature | Single-Function Systems (Furnace, AC, Water Heater) | GeoSmart Combo Unit |
| Appliances Required | 3–4 | 1 |
| Efficiency | 70–95% (furnace/boiler), 100% (AC) | 400–500% |
| Space Requirement | High | Compact |
| Environmental Impact | High carbon emissions | Minimal emissions |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years | 20–25 years |
| Cost Savings | Limited | Up to 70% |
The Combo Unit clearly outperforms traditional setups in both efficiency and convenience.
Applications of GeoSmart Combo Units
Residential Homes
Ideal for both new builds and retrofits, the Combo Unit simplifies home systems while providing reliable comfort year-round.
Commercial Buildings
Offices, retail spaces, and multi-unit complexes benefit from lower operating costs and sustainable performance.
Multi-Family Properties
Condo developments and apartment buildings can centralize heating, cooling, and hot water with scalable Combo Units.
Environmental Impact
Switching to a GeoSmart Combo Unit reduces dependence on fossil fuels, significantly cutting greenhouse gas emissions. A single installation can reduce CO₂ emissions by several tons annually, equivalent to planting hundreds of trees.
In addition, the system eliminates combustion byproducts like carbon monoxide, making indoor environments healthier and safer.
Cost Savings for Homeowners
Lower Bills
Homeowners typically save 40–70% on energy costs.
Rebates
Government programs often provide rebates for geothermal systems, lowering upfront costs.
Maintenance Savings
Fewer appliances mean fewer parts to repair and lower service costs.
Long-Term ROI
While installation costs are higher, most homeowners see a full return on investment in 5–10 years.
Case Studies in Alberta
- Rural Alberta Family – Switched from propane heating to a GeoSmart Combo Unit, cutting annual heating costs in half.
- Edmonton New Build – Integrated Combo Unit with radiant in-floor heating, creating a net-zero-ready home.
- Calgary Multi-Unit Complex – Installed Combo Units for both heating and hot water, reducing tenant utility costs and improving sustainability reporting.
Why Envirotech Geothermal Trusts GeoSmart Combo Units
At Envirotech Geothermal, we only recommend systems that perform reliably in Alberta’s unique climate. The GeoSmart Combo Unit checks every box: efficiency, durability, sustainability, and versatility.
Our team has installed countless Combo Units since 2006, giving homeowners peace of mind that their investment will pay off for decades.
The Future of Hybrid HVAC Systems
As energy prices rise and carbon reduction becomes more urgent, hybrid systems like the GeoSmart Combo Unit will become the standard. They align perfectly with Canada’s sustainability goals while providing immediate, tangible benefits for homeowners.
We believe the future of HVAC is compact, efficient, and multifunctional—and the Combo Unit is leading the way.
Conclusion: One Unit, Endless Possibilities
The GeoSmart Combo Unit isn’t just another heating and cooling system—it’s a complete solution for home comfort. By combining air and water technology, it delivers heating, cooling, and hot water in a single, efficient, and sustainable package.
With up to 500% efficiency, year-round reliability, and the ability to save homeowners up to 70% on energy costs, it’s one of the smartest investments Albertans can make.👉 Ready to simplify your home systems and save money? Contact Envirotech Geothermal today for a free consultation on GeoSmart Combo Units.
