Connecticut Wells approached the large installation as it would any normal water well project for domestic homes, the only difference being the diameter of the wells. While a residential well averages six inches in diameter for the first 150 feet, well diameter at the Carlisle Barracks averaged eight inches for the first 150 feet. Beyond 150 feet, the well diameters were reduced to 6/4 inches.
After the Carlisle Barracks wells were drilled and cased, Connecticut Wells installed Westlake Pipe & Fittings’ Certa-Lok® PVC insulating sleeves from the top to the bottom of the wells to facilitate heat transfer to and from the ground. For added safety, the Certa-Lok joint was connected without potentially harmful chemicals. The solvent-free joint allows the wells to maintain healthy standards for drinking water.
“Since the water pulled from the ground is soon returned for human consumption, it’s essential for drillers to focus on maintaining healthy standards for drinking water,” said Tom Mahan, owner and founder of Connecticut Wells.
Mahan adds Certa-Lok Well Casing also was easy to install. Requiring no special tools, the comparatively lightweight casing can be easily assembled by hand.
Not only did Connecticut Wells successfully install the efficient geothermal wells to meet the college’s heating and cooling needs, the installation created virtually no distractions for the campus. Connecticut Wells contained its well work to sites away from roads and sidewalks limiting disruption to day-to-day activities for the barracks’ military officers, civilians and tourists.
While installing a geothermal heating system may cost more than a traditional furnace and air conditioner, the geothermal heating system more than makes up for the cost difference in savings on heating and cooling bills.
