Geothermal Systems

SMCI has qualified staff to assist you with your new or retrofit geothermal heat pump installation. We are members of the International Society of Ground Source Heat Pump Association, and are certified by the Missouri Department of Natural Resource.

What is a Ground Source – or Geothermal Heat Pump?

Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs) are electrically powered systems that tap into the energy stored in the earth. These systems are able to provide economical, green heating, cooling and hot water for homes and commercial buildings.

How Do Geothermal Heat Pump Systems (GSHPs) Work?

Depending on the land available, geothermal heat pump systems can be installed in one of three ways: Horizontally, Vertically or in a Pond/Lake. Several variables determine which installation will work best, including available land area, soil and rock type. Geothermal heat pumps are also classified has having either closed or open loop systems.

Closed loop systems circulate water or antifreeze solution through pipes buried beneath the earth’s surface. The earth maintains a relatively consistent temperature. In the winter, the fluid collects the heat from the earth, carries it through the system, heating the building. In the summer, the system is reversed and heat is pulled from the building through the system and back into the ground. This process also creates free hot water in the summer and substantial hot water savings in the winter.

Open loop or groundwater system pumps natural water from a well or body of water into the system and works on the same principals as the closed loop system. Both open and closed loop systems are very efficient.