More FAQs about Geothermal Heat Pump Systems

When installing a geothermal heat pump system in your existing Hattiesburg home, you may have a couple of questions. The following are some regular questions and their answers. During your research into geothermal heat pumps you have come up with some questions. For your consideration are some additional FAQs to answer your burning questions.

Will an underground loop affect my lawn or landscaping?
While there is a short-term disruption, the piping required for a geothermal heat pump system has no long-term adverse effects on your grass, trees, and other landscaping items. Temporary bare spots created by horizontal loop systems are easily brought back to its previous condition with grass seed or sod. Horizontal boring technology is also an option which lessens lawn disturbance.

Do freezing conditions create potential problems with the buried loops?
If your geothermal loop system is installed properly, then no. Closed loop system geothermal heat pumps are placed at depths of 4 to 6 feet. The liquid within the closed loop systems is water with a minute amount of eco-friendly antifreeze, as opposed to a mixture of water and refrigerant, avoiding possible environment concerns of leakage.

Should I install an open or closed loop system?
There are several variables that influence this decision.

Open loop systems capture heat from the temperatures stored in groundwater and is slightly more efficient. One vital consideration for an open loop is the quantity and quality of the water available. Geothermal units require up to eight gallons of water per min. with low acidity and mineral content. A appropriate place to discharge the water is another consideration.

Closed loop systems are generally more expensive but are almost maintenance free. They circulate a mixture of water and alcohol-based antifreeze in a closed environment in order to transfer heat from the surrounding soil.

American Air Specialists will guide you to the solution best suited for your specific conditions.

Can Hattiesburg residents install a ground source heat pump system themselves?
Do not try this without prior working knowledge of geothermal buried loop systems. Improper installation of a geothermal heat pump can cancel any benefits it can potentially provide. Issues with thermal pipe fusion, proper system design, and purging of air from loops are all better left to experienced professionals.

Need more answers to questions about geothermal heat pump systems?
American Air Specialists is glad to offer its sage advice on proper sizing, installation, and maintenance. We are proud to be servicing Hattiesburg and it's surrounding regions. We have geothermal heat pumps to fit your specific needs. Contact us today for more information on the options available to you.