Frequently Asked Questions A geothermal heat pump is an electrically-powered device that uses the earth’s natural heat storage ability to heat and cool your home or business. Loop type and location depends on your individual home site. If your site is small or has a lot of rock, you will most likely need a vertical loop. If you have adequate land space and good soil conditions, a horizontal loop may work. You may even use a pond. Vertical loops are the most expensive to install, followed by horizontal trench loops, and then pond loops. No, research has proven that properly installed geothermal loops have no adverse effect on lawns or landscaping. Yes, in the Kansas City area, the pond must maintain a minimum of eight feet of depth at its lowest level during the year and have ¼ acre of surface area. Most likely yes. ECS Geothermal will make a visit to your home and determine if any modifications are needed to your existing system to accommodate a new ground source heat pump.