Abstract: A method and apparatus for adding rigidity and weight to the piping used in geothermal wells for ground-source heat pumps enhances insertion of the piping into the wells. The weight used must be approved by appropriate organizations such as the DNR, NSF, and/or EPA, or similar, for contact with the ground water. Concrete and coated iron or steel are examples of such weights. A system for assembling the pipes, weight, and a tremie pipe for insertion is disclosed. The weighting system may also help maintain straightness in the geothermal piping for ease of inserting the piping into the vertical well.

Abstract: A geothermal apparatus comprising a first pipe for receiving a heat exchange liquid therein and a second pipe for receiving the heat exchange liquid therein and having a web integrally connected to each of the first and second pipes, between such pipes for holding the second pipe at a predetermined distance from the first pipe. This pair of pipes, which are integrally connected, are installed in the ground in a hole or bore and then are connected to a heat exchanger having a fluid inlet connected to one of the pipes, a fluid outlet connected to the other of the pipes and the end of the pipes remote from the heat exchanger which are connected together.