Frequently asked questions

Can a geothermal system be installed in my existing home?

Geothermal heating and cooling systems are great for replacement or retrofit applications. Most units are easy to install, particularly when they replace another forced-air system. They can be installed in areas unsuitable for fossil fuel furnaces because there is no combustion, thus no need to vent exhaust gases. A popular way to use geothermal technology is with in-floor radiant heating, in which hot water circulates through pipes under the floor to heat the room. In most situations in-floor can be added to an existing home.

What makes a geothermal system different from ordinary systems?

Unlike ordinary systems, geothermal systems do not burn fossil fuels to generate heat. Instead they simply transfer heat to and from the earth to provide a more efficient, affordable and environmentally friendly method of heating and cooling. Typically, electric power is used only to operate the unit's fan, compressor and pump.

What does geothermal mean for the environment?

Geothermal systems work with nature, not against it. They emit no greenhouse gases, which have been linked to global warming, acid rain and other environmental hazards. And much of our product line uses R-410A, a performance enhancing refrigerant that will not harm the earth's ozone layer.

Does a geothermal system heat and cool?

One thing that makes a geothermal heat pump so versatile is its ability to be a heating and cooling system in one. With a simple flick of a switch on you indoor thermostat, you can change from one mode to another. In the cooling mode, a geothermal heat pump takes heat from indoors and transfers it to the cooler earth through either groundwater or an underground earth loop system. In the Heating mode, the process is reversed.

Can a geothermal system also heat water?

Yes. Most geothermal heat pumps can provide all of your hot water needs on demand at the same high efficiencies as the heating/cooling cycles. An option called a desuperheater can be added to most heat pumps. It will provide significant savings by heating water before it enters your hot water tank.