Manifold / Vault Inspections

Large scale commercial geothermal loop systems contain manifold piping that can be installed inside a building in a mechanical room, or outside a building in an underground manifold vault. In either instance, manifold piping and it related component parts should be inspected at regular intervals.

In many cases, “out of sight is out of mind” when it comes to inspecting underground manifold vaults. These structures can be easily overlooked when considering the maintenance requirements for a geothermal loop system. Failing to conduct regular inspections can be a costly mistake.

At a minimum, a semi-annual visual inspection should be made of all manifold pipes, isolation valves, circuit balancing valves, manual or automatic air vents, pressure/temperature ports, thermometers, pressure gauges, check valves and sump pumps contained in underground manifold or distribution vaults.