Geothermal Residential FAQs
- What is geothermal energy?
- Can a homeowner install a geothermal system?
- What regulations exist relating to geothermal systems?
- Can a geothermal system be added to a traditional furnace?
- Do geothermal systems make a lot of noise?
- What is the warranty on a geothermal system?
- What are the environmental benefits of a geothermal system?
- Can a geothermal system provide both heating and cooling?
Geothermal means earth-heat. This heat can be captured from the earth’s interior and can be harnessed to use as energy.
© 2000 Geothermal Education Office Canadian Geothermal Energy Association (Can GEA)
Can a homeowner install a geothermal system?
It is strongly recommended that a qualified and certified contractor be hired to design and install the system. Any mistake in system design or installation can drastically compromise performance and/or reliability. By not hiring an accredited installer, you may also compromise your eligibility for government incentives.
What regulations exist relating to geothermal systems?
The minimum efficiency of geothermal systems is regulated under the Energy Efficiency Act.
Depending on the circumstances, there may also be some requirements related to the group loop. For example, if groundwater is used, there are Ministry of Environment requirements that may apply.
Some municipalities or other regulatory agencies may have guidelines or rules pertaining to the installation of systems.
Canadian GeoExchange™ Coalition accredited professionals and members should be up-to-date on all relevant standards and regulations. However, as always, the burden of information falls on the consumer.
Consumers are advised to discuss regulations with the local installer and local government officials. Canadian GeoExchange™ Coalition certified installations will be checked by the Canadian GeoExchange™ Coalition for compliance with all provincial codes and regulations.
Can a geothermal system be added to a traditional furnace?
A dual system can be added to an existing furnace to provide a dual-fuel heating system, where the heat pump is the main source of heating and the combustion furnace provides supplementary heat during extreme cold.
Do geothermal systems make a lot of noise?
A geothermal system is one of the quietest systems available. The indoor components are sound-insulated and sound dampeners eliminate vibration noise where the pump connects to the ductwork. The minimal noise produced by underground components is undetectable to the homeowner.
What is the warranty on a geothermal system?
You should request a copy of both the manufacturer’s warranty and the contractor’s warranty, in writing.
Most heat pumps come with a one-year general warranty and a five-year warranty on the compressor, and extended warranties are available. The polyethylene pipe carries a warranty of 25 years or more. Contractors should also offer a workmanship warranty.
What are the environmental benefits of a geothermal system?
By transferring renewable heat from the ground into a building, there is reduced need for and use of non-renewable energy to heat the building. This leads to a reduction in the emission of pollutants overall.
Data from Natural Resources Canada and the Environmental Protection Agency (USA) indicate that geothermal systems have the least environmental impact of any space conditioning technology on the market today.
Can a geothermal system provide both heating and cooling?
Yes, a geothermal system can provide both heating and cooling.
When using the system for heating, earth energy is pulled from the earth and then converted to warm air or water for heating. During the summer months, the system works in reverse pulling heat from the building and sending it into the earth.
