Heat Pumps - Open Loop Systems

In open loop systems, the water is taken from an aquifer or other source, circulated and then discharged to another well or stream. The main disadvantages of this type of system are associated with water quality and corrosion, and the regulations regarding water use. The advantages include individual room or zone control and flexibility in installation. Installed costs are lower than central chilled water systems but higher than with closed loop heat pumps, or air-to-air systems, largely due to the cost of the ground-water source.