Industry Information
Geothermal Advantage
How Geothermal Works:
Geothermal heating and cooling use the earth's stable temperature to move heat into and out of a building. A geothermal loop is a network of underground pipes that circulates a heat-transfer fluid. Because the ground remains at a consistent temperature year-round, the system can efficiently absorb or release heat as needed. This makes geothermal one of the most energy-efficient HVAC solutions available.
Environmental & Energy Benefits:
- Significantly reduces carbon emissions
- Cuts heating and cooling energy use by 30–70 percent.
- Uses renewable, ground-source energy
- Long system lifespan (50+ years for loops)
- Reduces reliance on fossil fuels
- Supports net-zero and high-performance building goals
Types of Loop Systems:
Vertical Closed-Loop Systems
Vertical geothermal systems are ideal for properties with limited land area or where drilling depth is preferred over surface excavation. Commonly used in residential, commercial, and institutional projects, this system utilizes vertically bored holes drilled to a depth determined by the building’s heating and cooling requirements.
A continuous loop of pipe with a U-bend is installed in each borehole, then thermally enhanced grout is applied to maximize heat transfer before backfilling, delivering efficient, long-term performance with minimal surface disruption. The U-bend HDPE pipe installed within each vertical borehole is connected to a central header system, with each individual circuit routed back to the manifold area. This configuration allows for balanced flow, efficient system control, and streamlined integration with the building’s geothermal heat pump system.
Horizontal Closed-Loop Systems
Horizontal geothermal systems are a great option where sufficient land is available. They are typically installed in trenches approximately 5 to 6 feet deep, with standard trench dimensions around 5 feet wide and up to 300 feet long. Specialty or custom loop configurations can also be utilized when site conditions or available land require a tailored approach.
Horizontal trenches are excavated to the required depth, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes are installed and fused together. The piping is routed into the building and connected to the flow center and geothermal heat pump, providing an efficient and durable ground loop system. The entire loop system is then pressure tested before being backfilled.
Lake/Pond Closed-Loop Systems
This type of loop design is often the most economical option for homes located near a suitable water source, such as a shallow pond or lake. The system operates as a closed loop, with fluid circulating through durable polyethylene piping to efficiently transfer heat while maintaining environmental protection and long-term reliability.
Installation Process Overview
- Site Assessment – Soil type, land area, access, and project requirements
- System Design – Loop sizing, layout, and engineering
- Estimate & Approval – Clear scope, pricing, and timeline
- Drilling or Trenching – Depending on loop type
- Loop Installation – Pipe fusion, placement, and configuration
- Pressure Testing & Backfill – Ensures system integrity
- Connection to Mechanical Contractor – Final tie-in to the heat pump system
Industry Standards, Safety, and Certifications
Professional geothermal installation requires strict adherence to safety and quality standards. This includes:
- Certified geothermal installers through industry recognized accreditation (OGA, HRAI, IGSPHA).
- Proper fusion welding procedures and certification (Socket / Butt / Electrofusion)
- WSIB coverage and full insurance
- Compliance with provincial and municipal regulations
- Use of industry-standard drilling and excavation equipment
Industry Trends & Market Growth
Geothermal is rapidly expanding due to:
- Rising energy costs
- Government incentives and rebates
- Increased demand for renewable heating and cooling
- Net-zero building requirements
- Commercial developers seeking long-term operational savings
Our Role in the Industry
We specialize in high-quality geothermal loop installations for residential, commercial, and institutional projects. Our team and network of contractors bring expertise in drilling, trenching, loop circuit tie in, socket fusion, butt fusion and system design support. We work closely with HVAC contractors, builders, and developers to deliver reliable, long-lasting geothermal infrastructure.
Who We Serve
- Homeowners
- Builders and general contractors
- Mechanical/HVAC contractors
- Commercial developers
- Municipal and institutional clients
Educational Resources
We provide clear guidance to help clients understand geothermal systems, including:
- FAQs
- Property suitability checklists
- Cost and ROI explanations
- Soil and land requirements
- Links to industry associations and standards