Geothermal FAQ

Q: How long will the loop pipe last?
A: Closed-loop systems should only be installed using the appropriate high-density polyethylene pipe . Properly installed, these pipes will last over 50 years .

Q: Will an earth loop affect my lawn or landscape?
A: No . Research as proven that loops have no adverse effect of grass, trees, or shrubs .

Q: If the loop falls below freezing, will it hurt the system?
A: No . The anti-freeze solution used in loops that operate at low temperatures will keep it from freezing down to about 15 degrees .

Q: I have a pond near my home . Can I put a loop in it?
A: Yes, if it’s deep enough and large enough . A minimum of 8-10 feet in depth at its lowest level during the year is needed for a pond to be considered .

Q: Is a geothermal heat pump difficult to install?
A: Most units are easy to install, especially when they are replacing another forced-air system .

Q: What are the components of a geothermal heat pump system?
A: The three main parts are the heat pump unit, the liquid heat exchange medium ( open or closed loop) and the air delivery system (ductwork) .

Q: What is an open-loop system?
A: The term “Open-Loop” is commonly used to describe a geothermal heat pump system that uses groundwater from a conventional well as a heat source in the winter and a heat sink in the summer . The groundwater is pumped through the heat pump where heat is extracted (in winter) or rejected (in summer), then the water is disposed of in an appropriate manner .

Q: What is a closed-loop system?
A: The term “closed-loop” is used to describe a geothermal heat pump system that uses a continuous loop of special buried plastic pipe as a heat exchanger . The pipe is connected to the indoor heat pump to form a sealed, underground loop through which water or an anti-freeze solution is circulated .