Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

* Source: Airtechni and Geoconfort staff, Earth Energy Society of Canada, Hydro-Quebec and NRCan

FAQ > Questions related to the installation

• How far apart should trenches and vertical boreholes be spaced?
  ATrenches are usually spaced 8-10 feet apart, while boreholes are spaced 10-15 feet apart.
  
  
• Can a homeowner install an EE system?
  AIt is recommended that a qualified and certified contractor be used to design and install the system. If a homeowner wants to save money and has access to a backhoe, the contractor may provide details on where to trench on the property, and when to backfill after the loop is installed.
  
  
• Are there any concerns with joining sections of underground pipe?
  AThe high-density polyethylene pipe is socket fused (basically, melted together with a high temperature tool), which makes the joined plastic section more solid than the original resin. If done by a certified fusion contractor, there is virtually no chance of breakage or separation under normal conditions.
• Does an EE system use a setback thermostat?
  AA system relies on a constant, low level of temperature for the building, and any sudden increase in heat demand will cause the supplemental backup heating unit to activate. Setback thermostats are not recommended for use with an EE system.
  
  
• Is it possible to make a mistake when installing the ground loop?
  AIt is unlikely that a certified loop installer would make any mistake sinece he/she is trained to fuse sections of loop. The CSA standard requires that a system be tested to a pressure above normal operating levels, to determine if there are any leaks or problems which can be corrected immediately.
  
  
• Is there a concern with poor-quality water in an open-loop system?
  AIn a closed-loop system, the water must be of good quality and meet the specifications of the heat pump manufacturer and the supplier of the anti-freeze solution with which it is mixed. In an open-loop system, some chemicals and minerals in the water may not be compatible with the heat exchanger. An analysis of the water should be performed before purchase to determine which model of exchanger is required. If the water content changes over time, this may have a detrimental impact on the system.
• Can an EE system be added to a fossil fuel furnace?
  AA 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 the supplemental heat.
  
  
• Is an EE systems difficult to install?
  AThe ground loop can be difficult to install, depending on rocks, physical obstructions and topography. The interior heat pump is easy to install, and can be located in areas without proper ventilation (there is no combustion, so no need for exhaust). Most units are easy to install, especially when they are replacing another forced-air system. The air distribution may be difficult in a retrofit installation.
• Can an EE system be located in a septic bed to take advantage of the heat?
  AThe CSA standard specifically bans locating a ground loop near septic systems to avoid retarding the microbial action to decompose sewage. Grey water from the building can be used in some situations, if that collection unit is separate from the septic system.
  
  
• What heat transfer fluids are permitted?
  AThe anti-freeze that is used in a closed-loop system must be approved by provincial authorities and acceptable to the heat pump manufacturer. Methanol and denatured ethanol are the most common fluids used (methanol is not approved for use in Ontario). The fluid must be mixed with water in accordance with instructions, usually on a 4:1 ratio of water-to-chemical.
• Can I install a ground heat exchanger myself?
  AIt is not recommended. In addition to thermal fusion of the pipe, drilling and trenching are procedures best handled by licensed professionals. Nonprofessional installations may result in less than optimum performance, which could cancel out anticipated savings. Also, warranties are usually void if the system is installed by a non-authorized dealer.
• Will trees or plants affect ground temperature or the efficiency of an EE system?
  ANo. Systems are installed away from trees to avoid damage to root systems when digging the trench.
  
  
• How long does an installation take?
  ADepending on soil conditions and the length and depth of pipe, a typical residential system can be installed in two days.
  
  

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