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Frequently Asked Questions

CAN YOU DO GEOTHERMAL IN AN EXISTING HOME REPLACING AN OLD FURNACE?

YES! One of our most asked questions and yes we absolutely can install a geothermal into an already existing home. This would consist of Innovative Energy removing your old furnace and air conditioner, drilling the ground loops, and installing a new geothermal unit.

WHAT IF THE GROUND LOOPS BREAK?

The loops we use are made of HDPE (high-density polyethylene). These tubes are manufactured to last at least 50 years, but the manufacturers say they are suitable for 100 years. If, by some chance, there is a leak in the loops, we have techniques to plug the leaks and get your geo running again. 

HOW MANY ACRES OF LAND DO I NEED FOR A GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM?

The minimum number of acres required for horizontal drilling is 3/4 of an acre. If a customer has less than that, we can arrange vertical drilling, but the decision would depend on the situation. 

CAN A GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM BE POWERED BY SOLAR?

Yes, Innovative Energy has many customers who use solar photovoltaics to power their geothermal heat pumps.

HOW DEEP DO GROUND LOOPS GO?

If we are doing horizontal drilling (most likely), 20 feet below the surface, the ground temperature is constant, and we will drill 20 feet and then out roughly 300 feet. If we are drilling vertically, then we will drill 300 feet down. At just 20 feet below the surface, the ground is at a constant 49-52 degrees Fahrenheit.

WHAT IF I WANT TO DO IN-FLOOR RADIANT HEAT?

We have geothermal systems that can produce in-floor heat! We have clients who use a single geothermal heat pump connected to an air handler that provides both in-floor heating and forced-air cooling.

CAN A GEOTHERMAL HEAT PUMP USE A ZONING SYSTEM IN MY DUCTWORK?

Absolutely, just like a regular furnace, we can install a zoning system throughout your ductwork so you can control and adjust temperatures in different areas of your home.

HOW DOES A GEOTHERMAL SYSTEM MAKE BOTH FORCED AIR HEATING AND HOT WATER?

A geothermal heat pump is configured for space-heating priority, ensuring your home's temperature is met first. Once it reaches the set point, it will shift its attention to producing hot water for your showers, sinks, and faucets, and will return to space heating/cooling as needed.

Reach out to jwaltman@innovativeenergywi.com if you have more questions on geothermal heat pumps.

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