Geothermal HVAC Services in in Des Moines, IA

Earth-Friendly Heating Efficiencies

If you’re interested in elevating comfort, saving money, and reducing negative effects on the environment, a geothermal heat pump is the right choice. Cost of purchase and installation has come down in recent years and efficiency levels of 400% often recover the investment in under five years. Since the heat pump tends to last 20 to 25 years and the ground loop is warrantied for 50 years, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the many benefits.

Reliable Geothermal HVAC Services

Holt Plumbing & Heating, Inc. are your geothermal experts in Des Moines, IA and surrounding areas, providing new installations, replacements, repairs and maintenance. We began in the HVAC industry 79 years ago, and have kept up with innovation. With a focus on safe, clean and exceptional comfort, we epitomize the advantages of geothermal technology. We install Hydron geothermal HVAC systems. Exceptional indoor air quality, effective air filtration, both heating and cooling capacity and virtually free hot water generation are some of the rewards.

Save energy with a geothermal heat pump system installation!

For the design, installation and care of your geothermal system, trust experience. Our team of skilled, NATE-certified professionals are proficient in all makes and models, cater to your specific needs and optimize system performance. We invite you to call us at (515) 209-2360 and ask questions. Including service hours seven days a week, we are readily available to fulfill your needs. Whatever the concern or goal, for geothermal solutions across Des Moines, Des Moines, Clive, Urbandale, Norwalk, and Johnston, IA … Let Holt Handle That!

Frequently Asked Questions About Geothermal HVAC

What is a geothermal HVAC system and how does it work?

A geothermal HVAC system — also called a ground-source heat pump — uses the stable temperature of the earth below the frost line to heat and cool your home. Just a few feet underground, Iowa soil maintains a consistent temperature year-round, typically between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. A geothermal system circulates a water-based fluid through a loop of buried pipes, exchanging heat with the ground. In winter, the system pulls warmth from the earth and transfers it into your home. In summer, it works in reverse — drawing heat out of your home and releasing it into the cooler ground. The result is exceptionally efficient heating and cooling powered largely by the earth itself.

Is geothermal heating and cooling a good fit for Iowa homes?

Iowa is actually one of the better states in the country for geothermal systems. The ground loop can be installed horizontally across available yard space or vertically through boreholes — making it adaptable to a range of property sizes and layouts common in the Des Moines area. Iowa’s climate extremes, with cold winters and warm humid summers, also mean that homeowners here stand to benefit significantly from the year-round efficiency geothermal provides. Holt can evaluate your property and help you understand whether a geothermal installation makes sense for your specific home and lot.

How much can I save on energy bills with a geothermal system?

Geothermal systems are among the most efficient HVAC options available, capable of delivering three to five units of heating or cooling energy for every one unit of electricity used. For Des Moines homeowners, that can translate into substantial savings on monthly heating and cooling costs compared to conventional gas furnaces or standard air conditioners. Actual savings vary depending on your home’s size, insulation, current energy rates, and usage patterns — but many homeowners see their investment pay for itself over time through lower utility bills alone, especially when factoring in available incentives.

Are there tax credits or incentives available for geothermal installation in Iowa?

Yes — geothermal heat pump systems can qualify for significant federal tax incentives, including the residential clean energy credit under the Inflation Reduction Act, which covers a percentage of the installation cost for qualifying systems. Iowa also has its own history of supporting geothermal energy through state-level programs, and some local utilities offer additional rebates. Incentive programs and eligibility requirements change over time, so Holt recommends verifying current details with a tax professional or your utility provider. Our team can help point you in the right direction when you’re ready to explore your options.

How long does a geothermal system last compared to a traditional HVAC system?

Geothermal systems are built for longevity in a way that conventional HVAC equipment simply isn’t. Here’s how the components typically compare:

The ground loop — the buried pipe network — is typically warranted for 25 to 50 years and can last even longer with proper installation
The indoor heat pump unit generally lasts 20 to 25 years, compared to 15 to 20 years for a standard AC or furnace
Because the outdoor loop is protected underground, it isn’t exposed to the weather, UV rays, or temperature extremes that wear out traditional outdoor equipment

For Iowa homeowners thinking long-term, geothermal is one of the most durable home comfort investments available. Holt’s team can walk you through the full picture — upfront costs, long-term savings, and what installation would look like for your property.

"I highly recommend Holt! I needed my water heater replaced, and they came out and took the time to discuss all of my options and to make sure that I fully understood everything about the project. They did quality work, with all of the plumbing in traditional copper. That was important to me because I didn't want any of that PEX in my home! My entire basement looks cleaner and tidier because of the work they did! I was also very impressed that they didn't talk down to me as a woman. I like to do my own appliance maintenance and repairs when possible, and they respected my desire to understand everything about the installation and the prospective maintenance into the future."

Karen

"Holt heating and air conditioning installed our heating and air conditioning system and now we have the maintenance program with them. All the different people we'd have had out to do the semi annual maintenance have been courteous and professional in there attire and speaking to us. I would use them for other services in a heartbeat."

Pam

"Looking for a no fluff, no BS review of Holt? I got you... Over the past 15 years I've been a home owner, We've tried more companies that I could count. Lots of shady businesses out there... We were coming of a brand new HVAC installation just two years ago and the previous company completely botched it. It had problems within a month of installation and they were completely MIA. We ran it as long as we could to try and recoup the some cost, but it was a constant worry. Decided to give Holt a chance and we're so glad we did! Yes, they were more expensive, but it's the classic "you get what you pay for". 100% worth it! It's so hard to find a company that has the perfect mix of quality, punctuality, and honesty and Holt nails it. I genuinely appreciate their level of service and will pay a bit more to have someone I have the utmost confidence in doing the right thing. You should definitely give them a look if you need heating, cooling, or plumbing work."

Michael N.

"We had never heard of Holt Heating and Plumbing until today. We had an emergency and needed service immediately and Holt was available. Israel was our technician and he was amazing! They will have our business for years to come! Thanks Israel and Holt!"

Rhonda

"The best experience you could ever ask for. Nick is very skilled and knowledgeable about his industry. We were in a challenging situation and Holt and Nick were there to help us. Nick is very professional, extremely polite and friendly and very skilled. Thank you all so very much"

Victoria A.