Plumbing work needed for Geothermal System

Ground Loops Installation:

Closed Loop System:

  • Horizontal Loops : Pipes are laid in long trenches 4–6 feet below ground.

  • Vertical Loops : Holes are drilled 100–400 feet deep to install pipes, ideal for limited space.

  • Pond/Lake Loops : If there's a water body nearby, loops can be submerged.

Install and connect the desuperheater if the system also heats water.

  • Requires proper plumbing to tie into the water heater.

Open Loop System:

  • Uses groundwater from a well or a surface water source. Requires plumbing to draw and return water to the source after heat exchange.

Indoor Plumbing Connections:

Responsibilities :

  • Connect ground loops to the heat pump.

  • Ensure the piping material (usually HDPE or PEX) is sealed and pressure-tested to prevent leaks.

Connect the geothermal heat pump to:

  • The ductwork for forced air systems.

  • Hydronic systems (e.g., radiant floor heating or baseboards).

Safety Measures and Inspections:

  • Ensure plumbing complies with local codes and standards.

  • Install backflow preventers in open-loop systems to avoid water contamination.

  • Perform pressure and flow rate tests for system efficiency.

Maintenance Plumbing:

  • Periodically check connections, clean filters, and monitor flow rates.

  • Repair leaks or blockages in the loop or indoor piping system.

Key Considerations for Plumbing Work:

  • Ensure key components are accessible for maintenance or repair.

  • Protect pipes from freezing in cold climates.

  • Sizing: Pipes must be appropriately sized to handle the fluid flow and heat transfer needs.

  • Use corrosion-resistant materials, especially for groundwater systems.