General

Geothermal Heating and Cooling General FAQ

How does a geothermal heat pump system heat water for my home?

A geothermal heat pump uses waste heat to perform the task of heating hot water by using what is called a desuperheater. In the summer months, when the system is in cooling mode, your hot water is produced free as a byproduct of the thermal process. During winter the desuperheater heats a portion of your hot water.

How long will my geothermal system last?

Geothermal units are durable and highly reliable and have a considerable life cycle. The underground pipe carries up to a 50-year warranty. Geothermal heat pumps contain less mechanical components, many of which are either buried underground or located inside the home, which protects them from the elements.

How noisy is the geothermal heat pump unit?

Geothermal units are extremely quiet. Geothermal units do not have noisy fan units to disturb outdoor activities.

How safe are geothermal heat pumps?

Geothermal systems are safe and protected. The equipment is not exposed to the outdoors, so children or pets cannot injure themselves or damage exterior units.

What about comfort?

A geothermal system moves warm air (90-105°F) throughout your residence or business via standard ductwork. A consistent comfort level is achieved because the warm air is moved in slightly higher volumes and saturates the building with warmth more evenly.

How effective is this underground system?

The buried pipe, or ground loop, is the most recent technical advancement in heat pump technology. Recently, new heat pump designs and improved buried pipe materials have been combined to make geothermal systems the most efficient heating and cooling systems available.

Are geothermal systems guaranteed?

Nearly all geothermal heat pump system manufacturers offer a warranty for major components that is equivalent to the warranties for conventional heating and cooling systems.

Can these systems be used for commercial, industrial, or apartment requirements?

Yes. Many geothermal systems are being installed using a multitude of systems hooked up to an array of buried vertical or horizontal loops. This simplifies zone control and internal load balancing.