Why buying the cheapest geothermal system is bad

Have you ever bought something because it was the cheapest option? How did that work out? Was it exactly what you expected? Did the item last long enough to make it worth the money? Did you have to spend additional time researching and buying the product again? 

The old adage you get what you pay for is 100% true, and it is especially true for your geothermal system. Like any product there are a number of geothermal heat pump brands to choose from, and even more potential installers. If you are getting multiple quotes, buying on price might seem like a good idea, especially if all the quotes seem similar. However, going with the cheapest geothermal heat pump system could cost you a lot more in the long run. 

It helps to think of your geothermal heating system like a car. Everyone can install the same engine (heat pump), but it’s how you build the car around the engine that will determine its reliability and operational efficiency. Often the cheapest option indicates two things: First, the company you are working with is using less, or lower quality, materials to save money. Secondly, they are saving on labor by skipping steps, rushing, and using cookie cutter designs, which can lead to mistakes being made. 

Dangers of a bad installation

So, what can these cost cutting strategies mean for your geothermal heat pump? Firstly, it can greatly shorten its lifespan. A typical heat pump is rated for 20 years, but when installed and serviced properly can last over 30 years. 

Maybe your geothermal heat pump’s compressor fails due to an undersized ground loop – a very common way to save on materials cost. It could cost you up to $4,000 for a new compressor, and guess what? The ground loop is still undersized, meaning it is probably going to happen again.  Learn more about ground loop sizing.

How to find a quality installer?

There are a couple of things that are recommended to look at when choosing your geothermal installer. 

1. Beware of massive discounts.
   • If an installer immediately starts throwing our discounts it means two things. First, is that they could have given you this price in the first place, but thought you looked like an easy mark to take advantage of. It was only after they were in fear of losing your business that they gave this discount.  Secondly, is that they already had plans on how to save money on the installation and now their margins are not quite as good. 
2. Always look at reviews, especially on Google.
   • Online reviews do not lie. They are actual customers giving their honest feedback. Maybe 10 negative reviews out of a 100 does not seem bad, but read the negative reviews and imagine that it is happening to you. Also, look at the good reviews. Are they thoughtful and detailed, or very generic. If they are generic, they are likely paid reviews.  
3. Be cautious of very low quotes.
   • We are talking very low! Like almost too good to be true. They almost always are. Nothing good can come of this situation. 
4. Use a brand and company that focuses on geothermal. 
   • They are specialists for a reason. Geothermal is not your typical heating and cooling system. It is more complex, and there needs to be finer attention to detail with the installation process. Geothermal heat pump systems are becoming more popular and lots of companies are getting into making and installing them, but there are only a select few that are maintaining the highest quality standards.
5. Look at available warranties and guarantees.
   • These can tell a lot about a product and its installer. Short warranties are a reflection of the geothermal heat pump’s expected life, and limited installation guarantees are a reflection of an installer’s work ethic and commitment to quality.