Choosing & Installing

Choosing and Installing Geothermal Heat Pumps

When selecting and installing a geo heat pump, consider the heating and cooling efficiency, the economics of the system, and your site’s characteristics. Be sure to find a qualified installer.

Heating and Cooling Efficiency of Geo Heat Pumps

The heating efficiency of ground-source and water-source heat pumps is indicated by their coefficient of performance (COP), which is the ratio of heat provided in Btu per Btu of energy input. Their cooling efficiency is indicated by the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), which is the ratio of the heat removed (in Btu per hour) to the electricity required (in watts) to run the unit.

Look for the ENERGY STAR® label, which indicates that the unit meets ENERGY STAR criteria. Manufacturers of high-efficiency geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) voluntarily use the EPA ENERGY STAR label on qualifying equipment and related product literature. Many GHPs carry the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENERGY STAR label.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy Choosing and Installing Geothermal Heat Pumps