How to Install- Geo Cool Series: Preparation and Setup

To maintain your system’s manufacturer warranty, all installation work MUST be performed by a certified GeoCool installer, and any service repairs MUST be authorized by MRCOOL before proceeding. This ensures you remain fully covered and your system continues to perform at its best.

For additional Product and Installation information- GeoCool Install Manual

Ductwork Considerations: Key Things to Keep in Mind!

Important Note:

If your ductwork is installed in an attic area, it’s crucial to build it with a low profile and position it directly on the ceiling joist (where allowed by code). After installation and insulation, covering the ductwork with 6-8 inches of cellulose is highly recommended. Without this coverage, your ductwork can lose a significant amount of heating and cooling capacity to the attic, which can affect your system's performance and efficiency!

Why Insulation Matters:

Inadequately insulated ductwork = poor performance and customer dissatisfaction. To ensure your system runs optimally, always follow proper insulation practices, especially in attics.

Sizing Guidelines:

• In the USA, follow ACCA Manual D recommendations for duct sizing to ensure proper airflow.
• For best performance, install ductwork within the conditioned space of the building to avoid unnecessary heat loss or gain.
• For quieter operation, consider using flex duct from the supply grill, running at least 6 feet back from the grill to minimize air velocity noise.

Pressure Drop Guidelines:

• Supply ducts: Designed for a pressure drop of 0.08 inches per 100 feet.
• Return ducts: Designed for a pressure drop of 0.05 inches per 100 feet.
• Register CFM: Always verify the CFM requirements against the register manufacturer’s specifications to ensure optimal airflow and performance.

Avoid Undersized Ductwork:

Undersized return air ductwork can cause poor system performance and even cause the blower to pulse, leading to frustration for the homeowner. Ensure both supply and return ducts are properly sized for optimal airflow.

Smooth Turns = Smooth Performance:

Make all duct turns as smooth as possible to prevent restrictions and airflow blockages. For residential systems, aim for a target static pressure of no more than 0.3 inches. Proper duct design will guarantee efficient operation!

Caution on Installation:

When attaching ductwork to the unit, be cautious not to damage the air coil by drilling or using screws that penetrate the unit. Always be mindful of where your ducts connect to the system.

Find the perfect spot for your unit indoors, where it’s easy to service and maintain (check out the image below for guidance). Ensure that air filter access and unit access panels are quick and effortless to reach. Create ample space for all essential connections—ground loop, well water, DHW, condensate, and electrical—so everything runs smoothly. If the unit is going in a closet, be sure to allow enough space for servicing and proper airflow to keep things running efficiently. In some cases, you may need a condensate pump to direct excess moisture to a suitable drain. And remember, never place the unit in a freezing area—keep it in a space that stays comfortably above freezing for optimal performance!

Condensate Considerations:

Be sure to plan for a condensate drain connection in your installation.

In some cases, a condensate pump will be necessary to direct the condensate to an appropriate drain. For easy maintenance, it’s a good idea to install extra tees near the Geocool unit, providing convenient access for pouring drain cleaner down the condensate line. Just remember to cap off or plug any extra openings to avoid potential issues down the line.

All Vertical GeoCool units come with P-traps built right into the unit (see image below). These units must have a vent installed downstream and outside the unit to ensure proper operation. There’s no need to install a second P-trap—doing so can actually prevent the unit’s condensate pan from draining properly, causing potential issues.

All Horizontal GeoCool units are designed with a low profile, meaning they require standard P-traps that are vented on the leaving water side and installed directly outside the unit (see image below). If the unit isn’t mounted in the air, it will need to be placed on a platform to ensure proper installation of the P-trap.

Never tie the condensate drain and the discharge water line together due to the potential
for severe water damage.

THE FOLLOWING IS A GENERAL WARNING STATEMENT WHICH SHOULD BE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BEFORE INSTALLING AND OR OPERATING YOUR NEW GEOCOOL™

ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN KILL!!

• Always protect yourself and others. 
• Always turn off system power before removing panels. Some units may have more than one or two power supplies.
• Keep all covers and panels in place at all times. When removed for install or service purposes never leave the cover off when left unattended.
• Do not stick hands into return, supply, or any other opening.
• All repairs, electrical or mechanical, should be attempted only by trained technicians. In the event of a unit problem, do not reset the equipment before correcting the problem. Equipment failure due to resetting without first correcting the problem will not be covered by the warranty.
• The presence of water around the base of the unit constitutes an electrical hazard. Turn off the power to the unit as soon as water leakage is discovered and call a service technician immediately.
• All breakers/fuses supplying power to this equipment should be clearly labeled at time of installation.
• All wiring and plumbing should be done in strict accordance with local and national codes and ordinances.

Comparing Open and Closed Loop Geothermal Systems

For Closed Loop Systems

For Open Loop Systems