EarthTech Systems LLC

EarthTech installed a water-to-air ground source heat pump (3-ton capacity backed by two 360'-deep closed vertical loops), replacing an existing oil furnace and adding central AC to a 2,000 sq. ft. 1890s house. EarthTech's bid was higher than I had planned for but tracked very closely in content and cost with a bid from another respected GSHP specialist. Given EarthTech's reputation for quality, their larger size and ability to provide maintenance and service, and their including in the contract complete removal of all parts of the oil heat system, I went ahead with them, and I'm glad I did.

They took time to answer all my questions about the contract provisions before I signed, even bringing the well driller out to the property to reassure me that there was sufficient maneuvering room and ability to dispose of drilling waste water on the property. They stressed that without upgrading my existing ductwork (which I opted to defer, as it would likely have added more than $15 K to the project cost), the GSHP would not operate at top efficiency. They were also upfront about delays they would face in completing the project. EarthTech was up to its eyeballs in new work, as was the well driller, and supply chain disruptions were affecting availability of GSHP system components. After signing the contract at the beginning of July, there was a twelve-week wait for the heat pump to be delivered, and the well driller could not schedule drilling until late fall, all of which EarthTech made sure I understood from the get-go.

There were some additional complications to my project. Unfortunately, it turned out that bedrock under my property was fairly deep (120 feet), entailing additional costs, stipulated in the contract, for metal casings to stabilize the wells beyond the first 40 feet covered in the contract cost. I was prepared for this contingency but sorry it was necessary in the event. An unforeseen complication was that my basement oil tank began leaking in a significant way in early fall. EarthTech went above and beyond in helping me contain and dispose of the leaking oil, advising against any further oil deliveries (which fortunately were not needed) lest the tank fail catastrophically. It was a tremendous relief when the oil system was disconnected and the furnace and oil tank removed. From this point to startup of the new GSHP system in early January, it was two weeks. Again, EarthTech stepped up to make sure we were "not cold," providing a small fleet of space heaters. The winter holidays and a wait for another component to be shipped contributed to the length of time without central heating, which was longer than anticipated. Despite the mild winter, it still meant an additional couple hundred dollars in the electric bill. Through it all, EarthTech was very responsive to my queries.

The upshot is that the system began operating in early January, and I'm very pleased with it. It's very quiet (thankfully, since it runs continuously, instead of turning on and off repeatedly like conventional furnaces) and mains a constant, comfortable temperature. It came through the extreme cold of early February (-14 F) without even needing to switch on the auxiliary electric resistance heat. In the coldest months it looks as though electrical costs for the system will run about $200. It has evidently been sized properly for the house, thanks to the Manual J audit completed by EarthTech prior to contract signing. The system can be managed remotely or through a mobile app, provides extensive energy use data, and compiles diagnostic data for the installer.

The project made clear to me how complex an undertaking this is, and how many different specialties it involves. It's easy to see how the work could veer off course or be completed incorrectly, and it's not a project that is for the faint of heart (sadly, given the environmental benefits). If you do embark on a similar project, you want a competent and obliging partner, and EarthTech is one.

Beware of dishonesty. Sometime in February 2023 my tankless boiler system was making a loud clicking sound. It turned out the 3-way valve actuator was broken. EarthTech Systems' technicians came and ascertained the situation and quoted me for the replacement of the part (around $700 total). They advised that the part was difficult to find because it's no longer manufactured but they'd look. Two days later they came and replaced the broken item with no further advice to me. I was at that point a happy customer and I paid my invoice and I was thinking this story was behind me. Two months later I discovered that the system had been leaking at the exact juncture between the 3-way valve and the pipe, which indicated to me that this was not a perfect fit. So I called the company and one of the owners Terry came to check it out but he guaranteed me on the phone that the leak was coming from the pipe inside the concrete beneath my floor, per his experience. When I told him I had pictures of before and after the leak he was less argumentative. When he showed up he agreed that the leak was at the boiler level and not in the ground. I asked what his team is able to do to make me whole again. Long story short, they sent me another quote for $3,000 or so in order to replace some of the pipes to fit with the 3-way valve. I argued that they should make me whole for poor workmanship. Terry responded that his team takes zero responsibility in the aftermath of the project they initially completed. Now I'm left with water damage in my kitchen and a broken boiler. I do not recommend this company to anyone who expects honest or professional work.

I have had a few encounters with this company and they have been great every time. Last week, my heat stopped working due to the harsh winds and negative temperature outside. Ryan came in the middle of the night to help. He knew that my home is older and wasn’t sure if he would have the part, so he stopped at their shop first to grab some space heaters just in case. (It was around midnight so shops were closed). It turned out that he didn’t have the part due to my older system, but left me with some space heaters for the night. I appreciated that he thought to do that. Elijah arrived promptly the following morning with the part and repaired the heat. Elijah also performs my yearly maintenance and does a great job. They are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. Response time very quick. Highly recommended

EarthTech installed a full geothermal heating/cooling system in a skillful, timely, and professional way. This job included removal of an inefficient boiler as well as refitting an old house with ducts and vents. Terry communicated well about the overall plan and details of the project. He was flexible and answered all of our questions thoroughly with the benefit of his extensive experience and expertise, often stopping by to answer questions or look at the work. Mark in the office quickly provided whatever links, clarifications or helpful leads that we needed. Without exception the crews and subcontractors worked unobtrusively and respectfully in our home. They had the resourcefulness needed to solve any issues that putting a new system into an old house unearthed. City inspectors expressed appreciation for the quality of the work they did. The entire project was completed within the estimated timeframe, enabling us to enjoy our system as winter set in and to qualify for rebates and tax credits. When we had a few bitter cold days, even after the installation was completed, we continued to receive attention to be sure that our system was working properly. We recommend both the Water Furnace geothermal system and EarthTech very highly.

Elijah was able to trouble shoot our problem with our geothermal system quickly and provided a thorough cleaning and service. Customer service was top notch. The explanation of costs, and signing off on those costs before scheduling my service, was a great feature. I realize this is mainly for their benefit but I loved the idea of being able to plan ahead and not have to worry about surprised costs.

Very attentive to detail honest and upfront with everything from the measuring prior to the quote right up til the install and beyond the communication is top notch you will not find a better company HighLy Recommend

Leaking hot water heater - This team investigated the causes of hot water heater failure and why I have green stains in bathroom. They also gave me options. Love that - will use them again.

Professional, prompt, courteous, and completed service by both company and their service pros. Elijah was very meticulous to his handling of repairs. Removing air pockets from system which were preventing proper running of my system, re-cleaning a new filter they installed, and getting a living room radiator back to working properly. I'm more than pleased at his work. Just basically he is well trained and very knowledgable in what he does for a living !!!

EarthTech Systems did a fantastic job upgrading my HVAC system. First, they were extremely responsive to my broken hot water tank. In addition to upgrading to on-demand hot water, Terry orchestrated a geothermal install. He is extremely knowledgable and organized all the contracting. Elijah was also excellent at troubleshooting a small air duct problem in addition to checking on several other elements. Mark is very efficient in the office, and helped immensely along the way. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with the work that everyone at EarthTech Systems has done, and would highly recommend them for any HVAC work.

We are looking forward to hearing back and really hoping to establish the work we need done with your company.