We field a large number of questions related to residential geothermal installations. Since we have been installers in Oklahoma for so many years, we generally know the questions that potential customers are going to ask before they get around to asking them. Most people ask basically the same questions centering around geothermal’s economic feasibility, durability and performance. These are all good questions, and we have compiled a list of the most common questions we field on our FAQ’s page. If you are considering installing geothermal (or solar or wind) in Oklahoma we strongly recommend that you start there.

Due to the present growth in our industry, more and more potential customers are asking us questions about our products. We have noticed recently that some of the questions that potential customers should be asking are going un-asked. With that in mind, we have compiled a list of SAQ’s, or Should Ask Questions, for potential geothermal customers. These are the questions that we feel potential geothermal customers should be asking HVAC contractors before they make a purchase. Because few purchases will effect the next 25 years of a homeowner’s daily life like an HVAC system, it makes sense to be sure you are asking the right questions.

Are you an IGSHPA certified geothermal installer?    IGSHPA (The International Ground Source Heat Pump Association) is the geothermal industry’s litmus test for geothermal contractors. If a company isn’t a part of it—run the other direction.

Are you factory certified for the product you install?    Factory certification means the HVAC company has gone through the proper coursework and training to be able to properly install the equipment they are promoting. Without it, a proper installation is a pipe dream.

How long have you been installing geothermal?    Companies that stand the test of time usually stick around because they do good work. If your potential HVAC installer hasn’t been around for a while…

Do you install conventional HVAC systems as well as geothermal?    Many HVAC companies see geothermal as an efficiency “fad” or as illegitimate. Because of that, during the purchasing process the homeowner will be pushed towards other options or “high efficiency” conventional units. Some HVAC companies will only install geothermal if the customer is adamantly in favor of it. If you have to twist your contractor’s arm to install geothermal…go somewhere else.

How many geothermal units do you install in a year?    This is a good question because it will allow you to gauge the size of the company bidding on your project. Sometimes large companies are only concerned with selling the next system. Sometimes small companies are inexperienced. You should try to find the best company that matches your installation desires.

Why do you install geothermal?    You, as the homeowner, more than likely already know why you want to install geothermal. If a contractor can’t effectively communicate why they are geothermal installers, their commitment to you and the life of your geothermal system is suspect. Find a contractor who believes in the product.

Do you service geothermal?    Some HVAC companies are willing to do a geothermal installation if the price is right. Then, after the sale of the unit, they disappear, or are unwilling to repair the system if something goes wrong. Make sure the company you use as installer will also be willing to service the system. The installer will know more about your system than anyone, so it is advisable for them to service it. Find an installer that is committed to the life of the geothermal system, or you could literally be left out in the cold.