Frequently Asked Questions Q. Can my existing well be used?
A. If your well has a column of water adequate for your heat load, then yes, it can be used to house your new geothermal heating unit. If not, we can always increase the size of your well to accommodate the heat load. Q. What if my well's static level is too far down?
A. If the static level of your well is more than 150 feet, the cost of pumping starts to cut into the efficiency of the system. In this case, a closed loop would be a better option. Q. What if my well produces low gallons per minute?
A. A standing-column well uses no water for heating or cooling; instead, water is drawn from the bottom of the well through an induction tube. It is then run through the heat exchanger and returned to the well at the top of the column. After that, the water returns to the outside of the induction tube. Low producing wells with high static levels typically perform better because more heat is exchanged further across the aquifer (when used for domestic purposes, that is). Q. What are the ground loop options?
A. There are many loop options available, but in Eastern Pennsylvania, only three types are feasible: closed loop vertical bore, open loop standing column, and open loop open application. Closed loop vertical bores are used when bedrock is close to the surface, when soil conditions are rocky, and when there is not enough land available. Open loop standing columns offer higher efficiency and lower costs than closed loop systems; they can also utilize existing wells for heating and cooling domestic water. Due to the presence of high-level aquifers, these systems are only feasible in the northeastern part of the country. These systems only require enough water for domestic use. Open loop open application systems offer the highest level of efficiency. With this system, water is pumped out of one well and dumped into second well or surface body of water. This system is not feasible for all properties since it requires large volumes of water. Additionally, second wells may not always take the water away, surface water body is not always available, and special water dumping is required. However, in situations where this system is feasible, it provides unparalleled efficiency and energy savings. Q. Is open loop better than closed loop?
A. Yes and no. They both have their own advantages and disadvantages -- it all depends on the size and layout of your property. Contact us today for additional information. Q. Will I need backup heat?
A. No. For the sake of convenience, though, most geothermal heat pumps come with backup strip heaters anyway. Q. How is the system sized?
A. You will need either Green Team Geothermal or your local HVAC contractor will perform a Manual J heat loss calculation. This will give us an overview of your energy consumption and provide an idea of how much airflow is required in each room. Q. What is a Manual J heat loss calculation?
A. Manual J is the method developed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) to determine the size of heating and cooling systems. This measurement system is the standard method of measuring heating systems in today's HVAC industry. | 
