How does a contractor determine how much ground loop is required?
The purpose of the ground loop is to allow the heat transfer fluid to extract enough heat from the ground for efficient operation of the heat pump. A ground loop is designed to ensure that the heat transfer fluid will achieve a minimum entering fluid temperature when it enters the heat pump unit. Soil type and loop configuration determine the amount of ground loop required to ensure there is enough heat transfer to achieve this minimum entering fluid temperature for the system.
Is landscaping required after the installation of the ground loop?
Yes. The amount needed depends on the type of loop system installed. Horizontal loop configurations require the most landscaping work, as a large area of the land surface is disturbed during the trenching process. The amount of landscaping for a vertical loop installation depends on the number of boreholes drilled.
Does polyethylene piping affect the environment?
The pipe used in geothermal heat pump systems is a high-density polyethylene plastic that has no environmental impact on the surrounding earth.
What is the payback period on a geothermal heat pump system?
The payback period varies significantly, as geothermal systems are customized to individual homes. Factors that influence the payback period include:
- new home vs. retrofit (existing) home;
- cost of the geothermal heat pump system;
- size of home;
- energy efficiency of the home and the age/type of heating/cooling system the geothermal heat pump is replacing.
In addition, premium system options may be selected for comfort reasons (i.e. combination distribution systems, ECM fans motors, etc.) which increase the total cost of the geothermal relative to a conventional heating system.
My property is not very large. Can I install a geothermal heat pump?
A vertical configuration is best for a smaller lot. An assessment of your home to confirm whether you can install a geothermal heat pump is based on:
- heating requirements of home;
- access for drilling equipment;
- adequate spacing for the loop field;
- drilling obstructions — water lines, sewe lines and overhead/underground cables;
- drilling conditions;
