Legendary firefighter Red Adair knew a thing or two about hiring help in a specialized field. Speaking from a lifetime of experience extinguishing fires on oil wells, he said, “If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait until you hire an amateur.”
When you begin your search for someone to install your geothermal system, experience and expertise are a must. References from past clients and online reviews can help you understand an installer’s reputation and quality of work. You’ll want to consider these factors, too.
1. IS THE INSTALLER LICENSED?
Licensing requirements for geothermal installation vary by state and sometimes change. Check with your local building department or regulatory agency for the most up-to-date information about required licenses. Depending on your project, these may include HVAC, drilling, and electrician licenses.
2. IS THE INSTALLER KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT LOCAL REGULATIONS?
Local regulations and permitting requirements typically govern installation. You want an installer who can navigate the regulatory landscape of your locale.
3. WHAT’S THE INSTALLER’S DESIGN EXPERTISE?
A good installer will assess your property and design a geothermal system that suits your needs. The design should take into account any plans you have for future expansions or additions.
4. IS THE INSTALLER WELL-VERSED IN “RIGHT SIZING”?
The efficiency of your system and the money you save with geothermal depends on correct sizing. A good installer will perform detailed load calculations to determine the correct size system for your project. At Enertech, we have tools available to help your installer with this, too.
5. IS THE INSTALLER EXPERIENCED WITH DRILLING AND TRENCHING TECHNIQUES?
Space, local regulations, and soil conditions specific to your property all influence choices about your geothermal system. The installer should be able to advise layouts, digging, and drilling that ensure your system’s integrity and long-term efficiency.
6. IS THE INSTALLER KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT WARRANTIES?
Inquire about available warranties for both the equipment and the installation work. Ask if the installer provides maintenance and service plans for ongoing system performance. Will the installer troubleshoot if you encounter problems after installation?
7. DOES THE INSTALLER COMMUNICATE CLEARLY AND PROFESSIONALLY?
You want an installer who communicates clearly and answers questions to your satisfaction. The written contract clearly outlines all project aspects, including timelines, costs, and warranty terms.
ENERTECH CAN HELP
The geothermal professionals at Enertech are glad to put you in touch with an installer who is knowledgeable and experienced. We also provide your installer with the tools they need to succeed, such as technical support, a troubleshooting hotline, and a warranty department that can answer their questions. Reach out to us today for an installer recommendation.
