Geothermal heat pumps provide heating and cooling by transferring heat between your home and the ground. AC&R Services has offered geothermal HVSC systems since 1982, helping homeowners explore installation options, improve indoor comfort, and maintain their systems.
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Horizontal, vertical, and water-based loop options | Geothermal heating and cooling | Maintenance and service | PA Contractor License PA000278
Geothermal Loop Systems
Geothermal Cooling System Configurations
The right geothermal loop depends on available land, ground conditions, and access to a suitable water source. A site assessment helps determine which layout is practical for your property.
Horizontal Loops
Pipes are buried in trenches across the property. This layout can suit homes with enough usable land for excavation.
Best for: Properties with open yard space.
Vertical Loops
Pipes are installed in deep boreholes, reducing the amount of surface land needed. Drilling access and ground conditions affect installation.
Best for: Properties with limited yard space.
Pond and Open-Loop Systems
Pond or lake loops use a suitable water body, while open-loop systems draw groundwater through the heat pump. Each option requires a site and water-source assessment.
Best for: Properties with suitable water access and conditions.
Geothermal Installation
Planning Your Geothermal Installation
A geothermal project must account for the home’s heating and cooling needs, ground conditions, and existing HVAC equipment. These are the main considerations during installation.
1. Assess the Property
Review the home's heating and cooling requirements, available land, ground conditions, and equipment location.
2. Plan the Ground Loop
Determine a suitable loop configuration based on the property's layout, soil or rock conditions, and system requirements.
3. Select the Indoor Equipment
Choose a heat pump and compatible air distribution system based on the home's load and existing ductwork.
4. Test System Operation
Check the installed loop and equipment, then test heating and cooling operation to identify any issues before handover.
Geothermal Repair
Signs Your Geothermal System Needs Service
Changes in cooling performance, energy use, or room temperatures can indicate a problem with the heat pump, ground loop, airflow, or controls.
Reduced Cooling
Weak airflow or warmer indoor temperatures may point to restricted airflow, refrigerant issues, or a heat pump fault.
Loop Pressure or Flow Issues
Low pressure or reduced fluid flow in a closed-loop system may indicate a leak, air in the loop, or another circulation problem.
Rising Electricity Use
Higher energy use can result from airflow restrictions, incorrect settings, control faults, or components that are not operating properly.
Uneven Room Temperatures
Rooms that cool differently may indicate airflow imbalances, duct issues, thermostat problems, or incompatible HVAC zoning settings.
System Suitability
Is Geothermal Right for Your Home?
Geothermal can be an effective long-term heating and cooling option, but installation requirements and upfront costs vary by property.
Geothermal may be worth considering if:
- You plan to remain in your home for many years.
- Your property can accommodate a suitable ground loop.
- You want one system for heating and cooling.
- You are comparing long-term operating costs with installation costs.
Another system may be more practical if:
- Your property has limited space or difficult drilling conditions.
- You need a lower upfront installation cost.
- A compatible ductless heat pump can meet your needs with less site work.
- Your current system can be repaired or upgraded economically.
Geothermal HVAC System Maintenance
Routine Geothermal System Maintenance Checks
Routine maintenance helps identify issues affecting system performance, airflow, and energy efficient HVAC systems. The checks required depend on the equipment and the system’s condition.
Ground Loop and Fluid Circulation
Check the loop and circulation system for signs of leaks, pressure changes, or flow problems where applicable.
Heat Pump Performance
Inspect the heat pump and assess its operation against the manufacturer's specifications.
Electrical Components and Controls
Inspect electrical connections, safety controls, thermostats, and system settings for faults.
Blower and Air Filters
Check airflow, inspect filters, and clean or replace them as required.
Refrigerant Circuit
Check for signs of refrigerant problems and test the system when performance or diagnostic readings indicate a need.
Overall System Operation
Review heating and cooling performance and explain any issues that require further attention.
AC&R Services offers residential preventative maintenance agreements and 24-hour service. Contact the team to discuss maintenance options for your geothermal system.
Geothermal Equipment
We Install and Service Trusted Geothermal Equipment Brands
We install and service geothermal equipment suited to your ground loop, home heating and cooling needs, existing ductwork, and installation requirements. AC&R Services can assess your property and recommend suitable options. We service major HVAC brands and install trusted equipment. Available brands and models vary by system type, so confirm geothermal equipment options with AC&R before choosing a system.
Our Service Area
Geothermal Services Across Northeast Pennsylvania
Based in Sugarloaf, AC&R Services serves residential customers across Northeast and North Central Pennsylvania.
- Luzerne County
- Lackawanna County
- Carbon County
- Schuylkill County
- Columbia County
- Montour County
Contact AC&R to confirm service availability for your property.
Why Choose AC&R?
Experienced HVAC Service Since 1979
Local Experience
Founded by Dean Hilliard in 1979, AC&R Services provides residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC services throughout its Northeast Pennsylvania service area.
Licensed and Certified Technicians
AC&R lists Pennsylvania Contractor License PA000278 and states that its technicians are EPA certified in refrigerant handling and NATE certified.
Service and Maintenance
The company offers geothermal expertise, HVAC maintenance agreements, and 24-hour service.
Advice for Your Property
AC&R can discuss geothermal and other HVAC options based on your home's requirements and the available installation choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does geothermal cooling systems work?
A geothermal heat pump removes heat from indoor air and transfers it through a ground loop to the surrounding earth. The system then circulates cooled air through the home.
How often does a geothermal system need maintenance?
Maintenance needs depend on the equipment and its condition. Routine service can include checking airflow, controls, electrical components, and ground-loop operation where applicable.
What is the difference between horizontal and vertical ground loops?
Horizontal loops use buried pipes spread across a larger area. Vertical loops use deeper boreholes and need less surface space. Site conditions help determine which is suitable.
Can a geothermal system cool different rooms independently?
A ducted geothermal system may support HVAC zoning when compatible dampers, thermostats, and controls are installed. The available options depend on the equipment and ductwork.
Is geothermal suitable for Pennsylvania homes?
Geothermal can provide heating and cooling in Pennsylvania’s climate. Suitability depends on ground conditions, property layout, installation costs, and the home’s heating and cooling needs.
What are signs that a geothermal system needs repair?
Reduced cooling, uneven temperatures, unusual operating noises, rising electricity use, or system faults may indicate a problem. A qualified technician can inspect the equipment and identify the cause.
Planning a Geothermal Installation or Repair?
Whether you are considering a new geothermal system or need service for an existing unit, AC&R Services can discuss your home’s requirements and available options.