Can I install a geothermal system in my existing home?
Geothermal exchange systems are found in all types of buildings, including single-family homes, condominiums, businesses, schools and universities.
You don’t need a new home to install a geothermal exchange system, just an evaluation of your current system by a qualified HVAC contractor for retrofitting ideas.
Can I utilize my existing well?
If your existing well is 300 feet or more you may be able to utilize the well depending on the heating capacity necessary in your home.
If the existing well requires deepening, there are risks of changing the well water quality, therefore drilling a new well for the geothermal system may be the better choice
Do I need a back-up heat source?
A back-up system is not necessary and many homes with a geothermal system do not have one.
There is however an option to install an electric strip to provide heat from the unit in the event of extreme cold that is below design temperature.
What part of the job does Skillings & Sons, Inc. perform?
Skillings & Sons, Inc. installs the ground heat exchanger that runs from the ground up to the home. They drill the bore holes for a closed loop application or drill a bedrock well for a standing column well application.
What is the turnaround time to having a system installed?
If you need to order a heat pump system, it can take about four to six weeks.
As for installation, the turnaround time for the ground heat exchange system and the heat pump exchange system is about two weeks.
How is a system sized?
Redmond HVAC will perform an evaluation to determine the amount of heat that needs to be generated for the home.
Once the system is sized, Redmond HVAC will provide the information to Skillings & Sons, Inc. for the drilling portion of the job, also called the earth connection.
Typically a 1-ton heat pump will create enough energy to heat 500 square feet; therefore a 2,000 square foot home would require a 4-ton heat pump exchange system.
What is a BTU (British Thermal Unit)?
When referring to heating and cooling systems a Btu (Btu/hour) describes the energy-producing or energy-transferring capability of equipment like heat pumps, furnaces, refrigerators and air conditioners.
What type incentives are offered?
Geothermal heating and cooling systems often qualify for tax credits. Your state and local governments may offer incentives for installing geothermal heating and cooling system.
Learn more on our Tax Credits & Financing page
