It’s a great advantage to be able to install a ground loop on a new geothermal system when construction first begins on your building. Just be careful – not all “professionals” know what they’re doing in this area, and it can be all too easy to get someone who really has no idea what goes into putting a system together that works correctly.
Many people don’t realize it, but there is a science to appropriately sizing and installing a ground loop and heat pump. It’s not simply about “knowing a guy” that can drill into the ground. You cannot simply go by footage of ground, you need to have more information about the specific site, the particular needs and uses planned, and other factors. The outside and inside parts need to operate together. Mis-sizing is very common, incorrect installation is common, and leaking loops are not unheard of either. Why would you want any of these? It’s not simply about pricing, and in this industry, cheaper is not better. Knowledge is better.
The last thing you want to hear when you’ve spent the time and the money to install a system, is that “well, the ground needs to settle for it to start to work correctly” or “it’s not working 100%, but that’s the best it can do here”. The rule of thumb is that if you’re uncomfortable, the system is not designed or installed correctly. Being able to dig a hole and put the parts in does not necessarily assure that you understand it. Going with a professional who is certified in geothermal installation does help you know you’re getting someone who has the knowledge to put your system in correctly, and can do it right the first time, with the right size and kind of ground loop, and the heat pump that works best with your scenario. Why would you use anyone but a knowledgeable, certified geothermal professional for a job like this?
