The HVACR 401: Heat Pump is part of a series of texts for HVACR professionals looking to further their knowledge of the industry.

Geothermal wasn’t always on the homeowners’ radar in this application, as they briefly considered replacing their existing high-efficiency propane furnaces and air conditioners with similar equipment. However, the rising cost of propane - combined with federal tax credits - prompted their interest in higher efficiency systems.

Geothermal ground source heat pumps have been increasing in popularity. While geothermal heat pumps can be installed just about anywhere in the United States, some contractors may not be aware of how important it is to first understand the soil composition and subsurface conditions in their area before taking on any job.

There are many different ways to install a closed loop geothermal heat pump system but all involve burying pipes in the ground or submersed in a body of water. While backhoes are still often used to dig trenches for horizontal piping, drilling equipment is needed for vertical piping, in order to bore holes up to several hundred feet into the ground.

As tax credits for geothermal units continue, while tax credits for other HVAC equipment ended Dec. 31, 2010, interest in geothermal from both contractors and customers has heated up. To help satisfy some of the contractor interest in geothermal units, this product roundup offers contractors information on some equipment available from a variety of different manufacturers.

The geothermal industry has continued to grow in name recognition in the last decade due to its energy-savings systems and the green movement. The tools of the trade and training are readily available to HVAC contractors - but has the general public truly embraced geothermal technology?

Good news: The customers of HVAC contractors who install qualifying sustainable energy systems (geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, wind energy systems, and fuel cells), will continue to receive tax credits through Dec. 31, 2016. These can total 30 percent of the installed costs (product and installation) of the systems.