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Forums > Green Building Technologies > Geothermal Heat Pumps > Subject: Geothermal vs. mini-split in all ICF home

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Blackhawkip User is Offline

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05/12/2008 6:32 AM
Comparing notes on the cost/benefit of going geothermal vs. doing a complete mini-split system. Home going to be built: 2300 sq/ft basement ranch, 9% passive solar design, south facing, ICF basement and walls with SIPS roof. I considered radiant but the cost outweighs the benefit in a super high efficiency home. I live in Korea for a time and had mini-splits throughout my 1700 sq/ft appartment and learned to love them. 19 SEER rating, on when needed, de-humidifies and filters at the same time. Geothermal is obviously much more accepted and known in the US, but is very expensive. My last bid for a 5 ton verticle system was $22,800 installed. I am open to all insights and recommendations. NO pride here :) Thanks in advance

DickRussell User is Offline

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05/12/2008 8:44 AM
For an all ICF home of only 2300 sqft, that 5-ton figure has me wondering. Who came up with that size, and what does the detailed heat gain/loss calculation say is needed. And where are you located? Climate is everything.

TechGromit User is Offline

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05/12/2008 9:22 AM
Posted By Blackhawkip on 05/12/2008 6:32 AM Comparing notes on the cost/benefit of going geothermal vs. doing a complete mini-split system. A Mini-split system are those wall units in each room right? What do they run off of? Electric? Gas? It justs makes me wonder how they are any more efficent than a windows air conditioner in the summer, just because you hang it on the wall, instead of in the window? Educate me please.

tuffluckdriller User is Offline

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05/12/2008 11:06 AM
I agree with Dick Russell. Make sure that load calc is accurate. It sounds excessive. As far as your price, $22,800 is a decent price for a 5 ton. Is that a turnkey installation? (all duct included)

Clark Timothy (clark@pinksdx.com) VP sales, Tuff Luck Geothermal Drilling Geothermal, Heating and Cooling that's Dirt Cheap!

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