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Vertical and Horizontal Loops in Geothermal Installation

Here in Wake Forest, a geothermal system makes for a great alternative to more traditional forms of heating. It uses looped tubes filled with water and antifreeze to facilitate a heat exchange with the ground: beneath the earth, the temperature stays constant no matter what the weather is like outside, and a geothermal system uses that physical constant to warm and cool your home extremely inexpensively. The underground loops can be placed in two basic formats: horizontally or vertically. The net effect is the same, but you should still understand the differences between vertical and horizontal loops in geothermal installation.

Most residental installations are horizontal loops, which are buried about 4-6 feet beneath the earth. The coils are buried at least 4 feet underground and run parallel to the ground. It costs less to install than a vertical system, which is why many homeowners prefer it to the vertical models.

Indeed, vertical models are often the purveyance of schools and businesses, which don’t always have the square footage to handle a horizontal system. But they’re also available to homeowners who want a geothermal system, but whose property isn’t big enough to handle a horizontal field. In these cases, holds are drilled straight down – at least 100 feet and sometimes deeper – and the tubes extend down into it before looping back up and connecting with your home. As you might expect, this can be much more difficult to install and repair when things go wrong, but it doesn’t take much square footage to work as it should.

The complexity of geothermal systems means that you should consult with an expert before making your plans. In Wake Forest, geothermal installation can be performed by the experts at Raleigh Heating & Air. We’ll be happy to discuss your options with you, then perform your geothermal installation with courtesy and care. Pick up the phone and give us a call today.

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