2015-12-08T21:13:22-05:00No. There are different kinds of geothermal heat pumps designed for specific applications. Many geothermal heat pumps, for example, are intended for use only with higher temperature ground water encountered in open-loop systems. Others will operate at entering water temperatures as low as 25°F which are possible in closed-loop systems. Most geothermal heat pumps provide summer air conditioning, but a few brands are designed only for winter heating. Sometimes these heating-only systems incorporate a groundwater cooled coil that can provide cooling in moderate climates. Geothermal heat pumps can also differ in the way they are designed. Self contained units combine the blower, compressor, heat exchanger and coil in a single cabinet. Split systems allow the coil to be added to a forced-air furnace and utilize the existing blower.
Are there any laws that apply to open-loop installations?
2015-12-08T21:12:48-05:00In some localities, all or parts of the installation may be subject to local ordinances, codes, covenants or licensing requirements.
Can a geothermal heat pump also heat water?
2015-12-08T21:13:52-05:00Yes. Using what's called a desuperheater, some types of geothermal heat pumps can save you up to 50 percent on your water-heating bill by preheating tank water. Desuperheaters are standard on some units, optional on others. Some geothermal models can provide all of your hot water needs on demand at the same high efficiencies as the heating/cooling cycles.
Can geothermal heat pump be added to my fossil fuel furnace?
2015-12-08T21:14:22-05:00Split systems can easily be added to existing furnaces for those wishing to have a dual-fuel heating system. Dual-fuel systems use the heat pump as the main heating source and a fossil fuel furnace as a supplement in extremely cold weather if additional heat is needed.
Can I install an earth loop myself?
2015-12-08T21:11:10-05:00It's not recommended. In addition to thermal fusion of the pipe, good earth-to-coil contact is very important for successful loop operation. Nonprofessional installations may result in less than optimum system performance. I have a pond nearby. Can I put a loop in it? Yes, if it's deep enough and large enough. A minimum of six feet in depth at its lowest level during the year is needed for a pond to be considered. The amount of surface area required depends on the heating and cooling load of the structure.
Can I reclaim heat from my septic system disposal field?
2015-12-08T21:10:53-05:00No. An earth loop will reach temperatures below freezing during extreme conditions and may freeze your septic system. Such usage is banned in many areas.
Can we drill in the winter time?
2015-12-08T21:15:51-05:00Yes. Boreholes can be drilled even when the ground is frozen solid.
Do geothermal heat pumps have outdoor units?
2015-12-08T21:15:30-05:00No. The equipment goes inside your home, usually in the basement, garage, crawl space, or mechanical room. Because it's indoors, the life spans of the compressor and major components are greatly extended, most having a life span of 20 years or more.
Do geothermal systems require much maintenance?
2015-12-08T21:04:06-05:00No. In fact, geothermal systems are practically maintenance free. When installed properly, the buried loop will last for generations. And the other half of the operation--the unit's fan, compressor and pump--is housed indoors, protected from the harsh weather conditions. Usually, periodic checks and filter changes are the only required maintenance.
Do I need separate ground loops for heating and cooling?
2015-12-08T21:07:22-05:00No. The same loop works for both. All that happens when changing from heating to cooling, or vice versa, is that the flow of heat is reversed.
