Geothermal Loop Types

Find the Perfect Loop for Your Property

Looking to install a geothermal system? Start with the loop—the most important part—and trust GroundWorks to get it done right. With over 4,000 loop installations under our belt, we make it easy, efficient, and affordable to get your project moving.

Performing a geothermal loop installation
geothermal ground loop

Horizontal Slinky Loop

This setup uses overlapping coils in a 36″ wide trench, also 5’6″ deep. You’ll usually need one trench per ton of equipment—typically 30–60′ wide and 120′ long.

geothermal horizontal loop

Horizontal 4 Pipe Loop

We dig trenches about 5’6″ deep and 30–36″ wide, laying pipes in two stacked layers. These trenches can curve around your property—no need for straight lines! Expect about 10–30′ of width and 300–400′ of length.

geothermal vertical loop

Vertical Loops

Space is tight? No problem. We drill boreholes about 150′ deep (one per ton) and install U-bend loop sets. Great for small yards, wooded areas, and urban homes. Holes are spaced 10–15′ apart.

geothermal pond loop

Pond Loops

Have a pond? We’ll use it—if it’s:

  • At least 3,000 sq. ft. surface area per ton
  • At least 10′ deep consistently
  • Within 150′ of the house
  • Freezing in winter (yes, that helps!)


If your pond is new or unpredictable, we’ll recommend a more reliable alternative.