Who Installs Geothermal Heating Systems?

Installing a geothermal heating system calls for the specialized skills of a geothermal system installation specialist. These pros should be properly licensed, bonded, and insured per the requirements of your state and/or local municipality. This guide to who installs geothermal heating systems will help you find the perfect pro for the job.

Benefits of Hiring a Geothermal Heating Specialist for Geothermal Heating Systems

Hiring a local geothermal system installation service means you’re getting a specialist who’s well-versed in the intricacies of geothermal heating systems. They will help select the best type of geothermal heating system based on your property, climate, landscape, and other conditions unique to your home. Their technical experience with geothermal installations, including safe excavation and proper placement of underground piping, also ensures the system is installed correctly. Geothermal specialists will also handle permits, inspections, and local building codes, ensuring the system meets regulatory standards. Missteps during any stage of this process can lead to costly repairs down the line, so it’s always best to leave it up to a specialist.

Can I DIY a Geothermal Heating System Installation?

A DIY geothermal heat pump installation isn’t a safe option unless you have specialized skills, as it requires extensive knowledge of the property’s geology, how to size the system properly, and where to place the underground piping. Any mistakes during installation can lead to a system that performs poorly or doesn’t work at all, as well as potential damage to your property. For these reasons, it’s best to rely on a licensed geothermal heating specialist to ensure everything is installed safely and efficiently the first time.

Can I Hire a Plumber to Install a Geothermal Heating System?

While plumbers are often involved in the installation of geothermal heating systems, they typically don’t handle the entire project from start to finish. Instead, they coordinate with geothermal heating system specialists to do the final connections to the plumbing system once the basic framework is laid. This can vary from state to state, though—in states where geothermal systems are more common, such as Arizona, it’s possible to find a plumbing company with the specialized skills to handle a full geothermal heating system installation. 

Can I Hire an HVAC Technician to Install a Geothermal Heating System?

While geothermal heating systems are a solution for heating the home, they don’t fall under the scope of services for a traditional HVAC technician. HVAC technicians typically handle standard HVAC systems that work through above-ground units and ductwork within a home. A geothermal heat pump for in-floor heating involves installing an intricate underground piping system, which requires specialized expertise in excavation, system design, and geothermal loop installation.

How Do Geothermal Heating Specialists Install a Geothermal Heating System?

To install a geothermal system, geothermal system specialists start with an initial consultation where they evaluate unique factors like the soil type, land size, and local climate. They use this information to determine the right size and type of system. After obtaining the proper permits, the land is excavated, pipes are laid underground, and the area is backfilled to cover the piping. Then, the specialist will connect an indoor geothermal heat pump. Once the installation is complete, the geothermal system specialist will perform tests to ensure everything is in working order.