How It Works

• Horizontal loops are often considered when adequate land space is available. A typical trench for residential applications are 4 to 6 feet deep, and 100 to 400 feet long—per system ton.
• Depending on the design, 1 to 6 pipes are installed in each trench. Multiple pipe and coiled “slinky” configurations are often used to conserve land requirements and to reduce overall installation costs.
• The earth above the loops may still be utilized for other uses including driveways or shallow rooted landscaping options with no adverse affects to the piping system.

Closed Loop Systems consist of an underground heat exchange network of sealed, high-strength polyethylene pipe and flow distribution pumps. When cooling, the loop fluid temperature will rise, and rejected heat is dissipated into the cooler earth. Conversely, while heating, the loop fluid temperatures fall, and heat is absorbed from the earth. A closed loop system does not require a ground water supply or drain; therefore it isn’t subjected to mineral build up from outside contamination. Pipe connections in a closed loop system are heat fused to form joints that are stronger than the pipe itself. An EPA-approved water/antifreeze solution is used in the loop to eliminate the opportunity for freezing and to optimize the thermal transfer of ground temperatures. A closed loop system can be installed in vertical or horizontal configurations or submerged in a pond or lake.

• Vertical loops are used extensively where space is a consideration. Wells are bored or drilled to an average typical depth of 300 ft.
• A U-bend pipe configuration is installed within the well and is then backfilled with a thermally enhanced grout to seal the well and ensure thermal transfer of ground temperatures.

• Pond or lake loops are usually more economical to install because of the reduced need for excavation.
• Water (as opposed to soil) is the medium from which heat is absorbed or discharged. Coils or “slinky” lengths of pipe are placed at the lake bottom at a minimum depth of 8 feet.
• Note: Local covenants and permitting requirements should be taken in consideration with this method.

• Heated water is circulated through the floors, walls, or ceiling in a sophisticated system of polyethylene pex tubing. The tubing is laid out in a pattern, which provides wide spread coverage of the surface being treated.
• A number of circuits allow for varying temperature control of individual zones throughout your home.
• The system can be operated by a geothermal heat pump or boiler.