Mention the combination of heat pumps and hydronics and it’s likely the discussion will quickly turn toward geothermal water-to-water heat pump installations. While it’s true geothermal heat pumps do offer excellent opportunities in combination with low-temperature hydronic distribution systems, they are not the only viable way to combine the heat-leveraging ability of heat pumps with the unsurpassed comfort offered by modern hydronic distribution systems.

The biggest challenge associated with most closed-loop geothermal heat pump installations is getting sufficient piping into the ground. Most residential and light commercial buildings don’t have sufficient land area for the extensive excavation required to install horizontal earth loops. This often limits the choice to boreholes and vertical loop installations. Although such earth loops are proven technology, even in cold northern climates, the installation cost and site disruption can be substantial.