Variations of Ground Source Heat Pumps

There are four types of ground loop systems three of which are closed loop and the fourth is an open loop. The type of loop used is determined on the locations climate, soil, available land and the installation costs. Any type of system can be used with residential or business structures. Closed loop systems pump antifreeze through plastic tubing that is buried in the ground or submerged under a lake.

Horizontal Method

There is the horizontal loop which usually requires a good amount of land; this is because the loops are laid out over an excavated trench usually 5-6 feet deep. This method is usually most cost effective in newer construction and larger land plots.

http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/geothermal-heat-pumps

Vertical Method

The Vertical method is used when land is fairly scarce around the structure. Holes are drilled about twenty feet apart and about 100 to 400 feet deep. In each hole go two pipes that are connected down at the bottom so there is a complete loop.

http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/geothermal-heat-pumps

Lake/Pond Method

The cheapest of all the options is the pond submersion method which allows the loop to be placed in a nearby pond. Minimum depth for loop has to be at least 8 feet to prevent freezing.

http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/geothermal-heat-pumps

Open Loop System

The fourth method is in an open loop figuration. This type of system uses a well as the fluid exchange medium and circulates directly through the GHP.

http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/geothermal-heat-pumps