Types of Geothermal Vaults
When a vault is needed (typically in larger systems such as commercial properties and housing develoments) it’s important to choose the right type. Vaults serve as underground manifolds where multiple boreholes are connected before the loop field enters the building.
There are a few common materials used:
1. Concrete Vaults
- Most durable and long-lasting
- Ideal for large-scale commercial or municipal projects
- Can be custom-cast to fit unique piping layouts
- Heavy and may require a crane or special equipment for placement
- Higher cost but unmatched durability
2. Polyethylene (HDPE) Vaults
- Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
- Easier to install, especially in remote or tight-access areas
- Common in mid-sized commercial or institutional projects
- Prefabricated models available in standard sizes
- May not have the same load-bearing capacity as concrete
Choosing the Right Vault
At Ultra Geothermal, we guide clients in selecting the best vault option based on:
- Number of boreholes
- Site accessibility (can you accomodate cranes
- Load requirements (vehicular, soil pressure)
- Budget and long-term maintenance goals
Whether we’re installing a rugged concrete vault for a school campus or a lightweight HDPE model for a rural housing complex, we ensure your system is efficient, organized, and built to last.
1. Will the vault be under a driveway, parking lot, or need to support heavy loads?
Yes → Use CONCRETE
2. Is site access difficult (e.g., remote, tight access, no heavy equipment)?
Yes → Use POLYETHYLENE (HDPE)
No → Use CONCRETE (preferred for longevity and capacity)
3. Is site access or installation challenging?
Yes → Use POLYETHYLENE (HDPE)
4. Is long-term durability (50+ years) a top priority?
No → Use POLYETHYLENE (HDPE)
5. Are you able to accommodate concrete installation logistics (cost, crane, etc.)?
Yes → Use CONCRETE
No → Use POLYETHYLENE (HDPE)
6. Are you working with a limited budget and looking for ease of installation?
Yes → Use POLYETHYLENE (HDPE)
7. Do site conditions allow for above-ground manifold installation instead of a buried vault?
Yes → Use POLYETHYLENE (HDPE) with above-ground manifold
No → Use CONCRETE or buried HDPE vault (based on logistics and preference)
