Geothermal Earth Loops for Salem

In part three of our Introduction to Geothermal series, we are going to talk about geothermal loop systems and how each type works.

A geothermal loop is the series of underground pipes used to transfer heat to and from the earth. These pipes are made out of high-density polyethylene to ensure a reliable, long-lasting system. They are adhered together using thermal fusion which will create a bond that is far stronger than the original pipe itself. In fact, a properly installed loop can survive up to 200 years.
 
There are two main types of geothermal loop systems that are almost always used in today's installs: open loop systems and closed loop systems. Both systems have distinct pros and cons for your heating or cooling solution. We at Mill Creek Heating have the knowledge and experience on both types, and we will help you by determining the right option for your geothermal installation.

Open loop geothermal solutions are designed to maximize the natural groundwater from under your home. Using a well, water is from an existing aquifer and moved to the geothermal heat pump where its heat is extracted and the water is pushed back into the ground or to a designated runoff. Since the water that you are using is not being treated in any way, the only thing that is being returned to the earth is water that is just a little warmer or cooler (depending whether you're in heating or cooling mode).

One thing to keep an eye on with an open loop system is water quality. Mineral build-up can arise from poor quality water. This can be remedied with an occasional cleaning. If the water in the earth has greater iron content, you may want to make sure that the discharge water is prevented from coming in contact with air before it is returned in order to prevent clogs.
 
Closed loops are exactly as they sound. Rather than pumping water from a well and depositing it elsewhere, water is circulated in a fully sealed circuit with a small amount of earth friendly antifreeze.
 
There are two main types of closed loop installations: horizontal and vertical. Installing the system horizontally requires quite a bit of land space. The piping is buried in trenches between 4 and 6 feet deep and can be up to 400 feet long. If you live on a smaller lot, the loops can be installed vertically by boring straight down using drilling equipment. This category of installation can be installed in as little as a 10ft by 10ft  area.
 
In either case, the bigger the building, the bigger the geothermal heat pump and loop needs to be. A good estimate is that for every ton of system capacity, you will need 500 to 600 feet of pipe.
 
Contact Mill Creek Heating today to learn more about what system choices are available to you here in Salem.
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