This is my first post here & I did browse existing entries for the answer.  Nice forum.

Anyhow, I own a well pump installation business in New Hampshire and have been contracted to install a new pump for a client with a return line to his 500' well. The supply and return lines will be 5 feet below grade.

The question: would we enhance this system by insulating above the pipes? Might we get some exchange in the trench (50 feet or so) if we do?

Thanks in advance, Chris Kofer

You would probably get some benefit from insulating...my guess is not much.

i agree not much

,the water in the 500 ft well is your heat source,

your not going to gain many btus on a fifty ft run supply or return,

insulating is fairly common practice,

usually with shallow trenches for frost protection

Doubt you'd pay for the insulation with energy saved. You might even impede solar gains, but we're really splitting hairs here.
J