"The board studied the feasibility of a geothermal system from the very beginning.  They are being rewarded now for their vision of a few years ago"

Making the Decision

Preliminary budget proposals for a new elementary school building in Panora, Iowa, began in the fall of 1996.  In the spring of 1997, a life-cycle cost analysis was performed to compare the economics of owning and operating various heating systems.  It soon became apparent to the Panorama School Board that a geothermal system would be the best choice for the school in the long run. 

Even without considering the added benefit of an extremely efficient cooling system, it was felt that the lower cost of heating alone was enough to justify the efficient geothermal installation.  In the spring of 1999, a geothermal heating and cooling system was installed at the Panorama Elementary school. 

The performance of this system has been well-received by John Millhollin, the superintendent for the school district.  "We have been very pleased with the first year of use with the geothermal system.  The building has been very quiet and comfortable throughout the entire year.  Teachers love the ability to adjust temperature individually from each room."   

Mr. Mullhollin also commended the Panorama School Board on their decision .  "The Board studied the feasibility of a geothermal system from the very beginning.  They are being rewarded now for their vision of a few years ago."

Those rewards have shown up in the form of low operating costs and minimal maintenance requirements for the system as well as a comfortable year-round environment for the students and teachers.