Which two piping designs are often used to collect geo-exchange heat for ground source heat pumps (GSHP)?

The use of vertical and horizontal loops is widely recognized within the context of ground source heat pumps (GSHP) for geo-exchange heat collection. Vertical loops are installed deep into the ground and are particularly beneficial in areas where land space is limited, as they require less horizontal area. This design takes advantage of the relatively stable underground temperatures to extract heat efficiently.

Horizontal loops, on the other hand, are laid out in trenches that are typically less than six feet deep. This design is common in open areas where there is ample land available. It captures heat in a manner similar to vertical loops but generally requires a larger surface area for installation.

These two designs are the most suitable and effective for geo-exchange systems, as they capitalize on the thermal properties of the ground, providing a reliable source of energy for heating and cooling systems. Other options mentioned do not align with standard practices for GSHP, therefore making them less applicable for geo-exchange systems.