GEO 101 - What's Geothermal?

Geothermal units are similar to ordinary heat pumps, but use the solar energy stored just below our feet to provide heating, air conditioning and hot water. The earth acts as a giant solar panel, absorbing roughly half of the sun’s heat energy. A series of pipes called a “loop” is buried just below the frost line to tap into that stored energy.

In the winter, heat is brought in through the loop, concentrated, and delivered throughout your home. During summer, the excess heat in your home is removed and delivered back to the earth, completing the cycle. Because geothermal units use the earth’s natural heat, they are among the most efficient and comfortable heating and cooling technologies currently available.

Geothermal Loop Types

There are four main loop types used in the geothermal industry today. Your GeoStar dealer can provide you with guidance and advice for your specific situation.

Vertical Loop

Used when space is limited. Holes are bored approximately 125 to 250 ft. deep using a drilling rig. A pair of polyethylene pipes with a u-bend fitting is inserted into the holes. A typical home requires three to five bores with roughly a 15-foot separation between the holes.

Horizontal Loop

Used where adequate land is available. Horizontal loops involve one or more trenches dug using a backhoe or chain trencher. Polyethylene pipes are inserted, and the trenches are backfilled. A typical home requires 1/4 to 3⁄4 of an acre for the trenches.

Pond Loop

If an adequately sized body of water is close to your home, a pond loop can be installed. A series of closed loops are coiled and sunk to the bottom of the pond or lake. A 1⁄2 acre, 8-foot-deep pond is usually sufficient for the average home.

Open Loop

An open loop is used where there is an abundant supply of quality well water. The well must have enough capacity to provide adequate flow for both domestic use and the GeoStar unit. GeoStar units require 3 - 10 GPM, depending on size.