Question 1

How does a geothermal system work?

Accepted Answer

A network of buried pipes circulates a heat-transfer fluid between your building and the ground. In winter, the fluid picks up stored heat from the earth and delivers it indoors. In summer, the process reverses, carrying excess heat from your building back underground.

Question 2

What types of buildings can use geothermal?

Accepted Answer

Geothermal can be installed in almost any type of building — from homes and townhouses to schools, offices, and commercial facilities. Innovia specializes in cost-effective solutions for low to mid-rise buildings where conventional geo systems can be challenging.

Question 3

Is geothermal better for the environment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Geothermal systems don’t burn fuel on-site, meaning no combustion emissions. They also use much less electricity than conventional heating and cooling, reducing your overall greenhouse gas footprint.

Question 4

How long do geothermal systems last?

Accepted Answer

The underground piping can last 50+ years, and indoor heat pump equipment typically lasts 20–25 years — longer than many furnaces or air conditioners. With proper maintenance, geothermal is a long-term investment in comfort and sustainability.

Question 5

Does geothermal work in cold climates?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Even in the coldest winters, the temperature underground remains stable enough for geothermal to efficiently provide heat. In fact, the colder the outdoor air, the more efficient geothermal becomes compared to traditional heating.

Question 6

What kind of maintenance is needed?

Accepted Answer

The underground loops require no maintenance, and the indoor heat pump only needs periodic checks similar to other HVAC systems, such as occasional filter changes and system checks—generally less upkeep than a furnace or AC.

Question 7

How do Innovia’s ultra-shallow systems work?

Accepted Answer

Our systems use purpose-built loops like GeoPiles and GEOColumns that operate within 15–100 feet depths. This makes them ideal for low to mid-rise buildings and allows installation with minimal disruption to your site. Learn more about our solutions here

Question 8

Are ultra-shallow systems as efficient as traditional deep geothermal?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. By leveraging stable ground temperatures at shallower depths, our systems deliver comparable efficiency without the cost and complexity of deep drilling.

Question 9

Is geothermal right for my property—new build or retrofit?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We work with both. Our ultra-shallow systems fit neatly under new construction or can be integrated into retrofit projects.

Question 10

How long does an installation typically take?

Accepted Answer

Timeframes vary by project size and site conditions, but our shallow methods usually mean faster installations compared to traditional geothermal. Many low to mid-rise projects can be completed in weeks rather than months.

Question 11

Will installation disrupt my property?

Accepted Answer

Minimal disturbance is one of our strengths. We design our systems to work within existing site plans, avoiding large excavation areas and keeping your property’s layout intact.

Question 12

How much does a geothermal system cost?

Accepted Answer

Cost depends on building size, ground conditions, and system type. However, when you factor in federal, provincial, and utility incentives, plus long-term energy savings, many clients find the investment highly cost-effective. Chat with us to understand what is possible for your project.

Question 13

What financial incentives are available right now?

Accepted Answer

Programs vary by region and may include tax credits, rebates, or low-interest financing. We guide you through every step of identifying and securing the best available incentives.

Question 14

How much can I save on energy bills?

Accepted Answer

Savings vary, but most clients see reductions of 30–60% in heating and cooling costs compared to conventional heating and cooling systems.

Question 15

What is the expected lifespan of a geothermal system?

Accepted Answer

Underground components are built to last over 50 years, and indoor heat pumps typically operate 20–25 years with standard maintenance—often outlasting conventional HVAC systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does a geothermal system work?

What types of buildings can use geothermal?

Is geothermal better for the environment?

How long do geothermal systems last?

Does geothermal work in cold climates?

What kind of maintenance is needed?

How do Innovia’s ultra-shallow systems work?

Are ultra-shallow systems as efficient as traditional deep geothermal?

Is geothermal right for my property—new build or retrofit?

How long does an installation typically take?

Will installation disrupt my property?

How much does a geothermal system cost?

What financial incentives are available right now?

How much can I save on energy bills?

What is the expected lifespan of a geothermal system?

Wondering if GEO is Right for You?

We’ll help you understand what’s possible for your space
— and your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does a geothermal system work?

What types of buildings can use geothermal?

Is geothermal better for the environment?

How long do geothermal systems last?

Does geothermal work in cold climates?

What kind of maintenance is needed?

How do Innovia’s ultra-shallow systems work?

Are ultra-shallow systems as efficient as traditional deep geothermal?

Is geothermal right for my property—new build or retrofit?

How long does an installation typically take?

Will installation disrupt my property?

How much does a geothermal system cost?

What financial incentives are available right now?

How much can I save on energy bills?

What is the expected lifespan of a geothermal system?

Wondering if GEO is Right for You?

We’ll help you understand what’s possible for your space — and your budget.

We’ll help you understand what’s possible for your space
— and your budget.