We are designing a gulf front home in the FL Panhandle.  I am very interested in designing with a geothermal system but have several questions.  The home will be on concrete pilings; 3,000 SF total on 2 floors (1500 per floor); ICF construction.  The lot is narrow, so I would guess that a closed loop vertical system would make the most sense. Typical sand conditions that one would expect in this environment. Does anyone have experience with geothermal in this type of setting, from a homeowners perspective?  If so, are you having a positive experience with monthly operating costs?  Is the sandy soil a good conductor with geothermal?  I feel that having the air handlers inside as opposed to heat pumps outside will add to their longevity in this type of environment.

I would send an email to "engineer" (Curt Kinder) here on the forum. He lives and works in Florida and is experienced with geothermal heating/cooling in that region. Here is one of his previous posts on the subject:

http://www.greenbuildingtalk.com/Fo...fault.aspx

Many systems in FL are open loop taking advantage of the Floridan aquifer. This would offer a much lower first cost if available to you. I agree with arkie Curt may be a terrific resource for you.

arkie6 and joe.ami...thank you. I will reach out to Curt

Ww and I have exchanged emails...unfortunately his homesite is outside our combat radius. In my section of Florida, open loops are now required to recharge to the original aquifer.