I just read A guide that stated "geothermal will never pay for itself".  What hog wash-- Geothermal systems are the latest technolegy and far, out cool, out heat, and out last, any standard A/C unit.  Current A/C contractors are flat afraid of these units because of two reasons , first is the water or liquid used to connect them to the earth and second they last 20 to 30 years, which prevents them from selling you one or two new units in the future.  Just think , A few years ago we all heard that electric windows on cars were junk,  now go buy A car and see what you get.  My geo units operate with A seer of 27, which by the way saved me $2600.00 last year alone in electric and gas.  When anyone suggest that geothermal is not worth the money and effort just go to any U.S. Government web site and see what they say,  the Dept. of energy states they are the best, most energy effecient unit you can buy.  The environmental protection agency says that they save so much energy that they are the most environmentally friendly unit you can use.  President Bush installed one at his ranch, Trump towers uses one, they are putting it in Buckingham palace and Fort Polk LA housing is all geothermal.  Kinda makes you wonder who is telling the truth and who is wanting the same old standard quick $ , and don't give A damn about saving you money, the environment or our planet.   Do the research and you'll find why I said "hog wash"