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Geothermal Systems utilizing Vertical Bores: 45+ Years of Proven, Near-Nil Maintenance Performance Below the Surface

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Harnessing the Power Below: Why Vertical Bore Geothermal Is the Future of HVAC

In this energizing Coffee Break Webinar, SVL welcomed geothermal expert Dr. James Tinjum to explore the engineering, efficiency, and long-term value of Geothermal Systems Utilizing Vertical Bores. Hosted by Sales Engineer Duane Rothstein, the session focused on how vertical closed-loop geothermal fields are revolutionizing heating and cooling across residential, commercial, and campus-scale applications.

Vertical Bore Geothermal: A Proven and Powerful HVAC Solution

With more than 80 years of performance data, vertical bore geothermal systems are among the most reliable HVAC technologies available today. Dr. Tinjum highlighted how the Earth—acting as a massive, stable thermal battery—delivers unmatched performance year-round.

Vertical closed-loop systems boast exceptional coefficients of performance (COPs), routinely reaching 7–8 for cooling and 4 for heating, even 7+ years post-installation. These metrics aren’t theoretical—they’re based on actual long-term data from a 2,600-well geothermal field in Wisconsin.

Driving Energy Savings and Sustainability

Dr. Tinjum emphasized that Geothermal Systems Utilizing Vertical Bores empower building owners with:

  • True energy independence, regardless of fossil fuel volatility
  • Consistent operating cost savings driven by electricity-based performance
  • Significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions

Additional sustainability benefits include:

  • Minimal maintenance over the system’s 50+ year lifespan
  • No cooling towers, eliminating evaporative water loss
  • All materials sourced domestically, supporting U.S. manufacturing
  • Peak load relief during summer—supporting grid resiliency when it’s needed most

Smart Design = Powerful Performance

The design of a vertical bore geothermal system is both practical and scalable. Dr. Tinjum broke down key considerations:

  • Cost of vertical drilling and installation: Averaging $2,500 per vertical well, including pipe, grout, and labor
  • Geological factors: Soil type, water flow, and depth influence performance
  • Well configuration: Ideal well depth is 500–800 feet, spaced 18–20 feet apart
  • Space-saving options: Directional (angled) drilling is possible in tight footprints, though vertical bores remain the most efficient

With support from ASHRAE handbooks and industry-specific software, optimal field layout and thermal performance can be easily modeled to meet both load and budget requirements.

Return on Investment: The Numbers Speak for Themselves

Dr. Tinjum presented compelling ROI figures:

  • Residential systems often achieve 8–12 year paybacks
  • Large-scale commercial and institutional systems see paybacks in 6–9 years
  • Federal and state incentives, including Inflation Reduction Act tax credits, can significantly shorten ROI timelines

With lifespans extending well beyond five decades and virtually no required maintenance, vertical bore geothermal systems are among the smartest long-term investments in HVAC today.

Closing Insight: Go Vertical, Go Smart

The Q&A session covered common concerns such as long-term COP trends, design alternatives (horizontal vs. vertical), and integration with modern building systems. The verdict? Vertical Bore Geothermal Systems offer unparalleled efficiency, simplicity, and sustainability—making them the optimal HVAC choice for forward-thinking facility managers, engineers, and building owners.

Ready to Dig In?

Interested in learning more about how a geothermal vertical bore solution can support your building or campus? Connect with your SVL Sales Engineer to request Dr. Tinjum’s presentation deck or to schedule a consultation.

Be sure to catch the next SVL Coffee Break—our exclusive 45-minute webinar series featuring the HVAC industry’s most innovative voices. Whether you’re focused on decarbonization, operating cost reduction, or long-term energy planning, SVL is your go-to partner in smart HVAC solutions. Contact your SVL Sales Engineer to register.

Contact Us Today To Learn More About Geothermal Technology

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                      Jim Lubratt

                      President & Chief Executive Officer

                      Jim Lubratt has been president of SVL since 2006. He first joined the company as a sales engineer in 1992 and was made a partner in 2000. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Southern Methodist University and first entered the HVAC industry as a marketing engineer for a heat pump manufacturer in Texas.

                      In addition to his role at SVL, Jim is vice president of AQC Industries, LLC, a manufacturer of specialized underground ductwork systems. He is also an investor and board member for Hydromx, Inc., a manufacturer of heat transfer nanofluids, and Crotega, Inc., creators of personal and building security solutions.

                      Jim and his wife, Tracy, met in college and married in 1993. They have three children, two of whom have graduated college in Texas, while their youngest is attending Grand Canyon University in Arizona.

                      Outside of work, Jim places a priority on his faith, family, friends, and fitness. He enjoys helping people-supporting charities, time with his wife and kids, road-biking with friends and efforts to stay physically fit.

                      A message from Jim on the achievements of SVL

                      SVL started in February 1967 by Charlie Schwab and Craig Vollhaber. Schwab-Vollhaber, Inc. (as it was named at the time) steadily grew and, in 1985, welcomed Paul Lubratt as another partner, becoming Schwab-Vollhaber-Lubratt, Inc. SVL’s founders had the determination to build the most talented, customer-focused HVAC representative in the Midwest. Our original drive and passion still shape the company and culture to this day. The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual. From humble beginnings, SVL founders paved the way to industry success with hard work and determination. “Today, SVL is strongly organized with great people to lead our industry forward as we are challenged with fast-paced changes to reduce our environmental impact,” says Jim. Now, 55+ years later, SVL is under the leadership of two new principals who share the same vision and drive that has propelled SVL throughout the years. Built on a foundation of integrity, Jim Lubratt, and Charlie Vollhaber strive to ensure opportunities for personal growth, improved work environment, and shared life enrichment. The achievements of our organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual.

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                      Charlie Vollhaber

                      Executive Vice President & Officer

                      Charlie Vollhaber is a third-generation employee at SVL, as a grandson of company co-founder Craig Vollhaber and son of former CEO Todd Vollhaber. Charlie holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and an MBA, both from the University of Minnesota. He became an outside salesman for SVL in 2013, was made a partner in 2019, and then executive vice president and officer in 2022.

                      He grew up playing sports, including football, basketball, golf, and track, and enjoys the competitive nature of the HVAC industry. “I like that no two days are ever the same as there are always questions to answer and problems to solve,” he says. “Most of all, I enjoy working with great people and coordinating together on challenging projects to achieve positive results together.”

                      Outside of work, Charlie enjoys spending time with his wife, Lesley, and their three boys. He’s also fond of golfing, traveling, and attending concerts and sporting events. One of his favorite quotes is from the book of Philippians: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count other more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Because HVAC and construction is such a team effort, he says, “this mindset helps to create positive results in a vast majority of situations.”

                      A message from Charlie on the culture of SVL

                      “At SVL, we strive to cultivate a unique culture that revolves around finding and empowering exceptional individuals. We believe in equipping our team members with the right tools and resources to succeed.

                      As we’ve grown the business, we have deliberately maintained a small firm culture, fostering an environment where collaboration thrives. We encourage open dialogue and promote a sense of comfort among our employees, allowing anyone to ask questions and seek guidance from anyone else, regardless of their level within the organization.

                      We foster a workshop-like atmosphere where everyone’s contribution is valued. Presenting your work to another individual or a group of teammates provides a platform for collaboration, where ideas are shared, dissected, and improved collectively. We firmly believe in the power of mentoring and provide various avenues for both formal and informal guidance. Whether it’s through structured training programs or casual conversations, we encourage team members to discuss a wide range of topics, from work-related successes or issues to everyday personal life topics.

                      In summary, our culture is built on the foundation of attracting exceptional individuals, empowering them with the necessary tools, and fostering a collaborative environment where mentorship and growth thrive. We are committed to creating an atmosphere where every team member feels supported, valued, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential.”

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                      Al Gramse

                      Vice President of SVL Service Corporation

                      Al Gramse has been in the HVAC industry for over 30 years. He began as a service technician.  Then over his career worked in technical support, building automation, then service manager prior to his current role.

                      How did Al end up in the HVAC industry?  “After high school, I took a couple years to figure out what I wanted to do.   Where I was working at the time, a grumpy old coworker, who I didn’t get along with, walked up to me and said ‘What are you doing here?  Go back to school.’”  I said, “For what?”  He said “There’s a tech school down the street.  Go down there and pick something that interests you”. Then he walked away.  That weird interaction, with someone I didn’t get along with, sent me down a 30-year path in the HVAC industry.   Never underestimate the potential of a little encouragement.   Even if it is from a strange source.

                      Al has been with SVL for 15 years and is the head of our SVL Service division. “The people here are some of the best in the industry,” Al says. “A bunch of team-oriented, knowledgeable, go-getters.” His personal mantra is “figure it out,” “Do a little fact-finding on your own. Use your own brain before you use someone else’s. But know when to ask for help.” he prescribes. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish on your own if you dig in a little bit.”

                      Outside of work, Al has lots of outdoor hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and motorcycling, though his favorite pastime is simply hanging out with family.

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                      Jennifer Roach

                      Director of Marketing, Events & Administration

                      More than just a creative director, Jen brings 30 years of marketing and leadership magic to SVL. Her journey began in the trenches of graphic design, quickly evolving into crafting eye-catching campaigns for iconic brands like Target, Gabberts, Gander Mountain and Camping World. As a seasoned director and agency veteran, she honed her skills with recreational vehicle giant Parts Unlimited before leading creative teams at HOM Furniture and, ultimately, landing at SVL during a crucial growth phase.

                      Jen thrives on "servant-leadership," empowering her team and fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect. "It unlocks their potential, fuels creativity, and leads to work we're all proud of," she says. "I want my team to care, collaborate, and push boundaries together."

                      When not shaping impactful campaigns, Jen enjoys weekend adventures with her husband, Scott, and son, Crew. Their lives are a tapestry of shared passions, from bike rides and baking experiments to cheering on Simley High School wrestlers. And with her recently built forever home in Cottage Grove, her free time now includes a new, thrilling chapter: weekend renovation warrior!

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                      Mike Ruff

                      Vice President of Information Technology

                      Mike Ruff, the Vice President of Information Technology at SVL Inc., is a seasoned professional with an impressive 24-year tenure in the IT industry. His journey in the field is marked by extensive experience and expertise in various domains, including serving as a Cloud Architect focusing on Azure Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and both B2B and B2C solutions. Mike’s skills extend to being a Security Architect, where he has honed his knowledge in safeguarding digital assets, and he is also proficient in the Microsoft 365 stack, virtualization, routing, switching, and wireless technologies.

                      Beyond his professional roles, Mike is deeply passionate about technology in all its forms, which is evident in his career and personal hobbies. His love for technology is not just limited to his work but also spills over into his leisure activities. In the summertime, Mike enjoys the thrill of riding his motorcycle, embracing the freedom and adventure it brings. When winter arrives, he switches gears to snowboarding, seeking the excitement and challenge of the snowy slopes. These hobbies reflect Mike’s dynamic personality and continuous pursuit of technically engaging and physically exhilarating activities.

                      Mike Ruff's blend of professional expertise and personal passions make him a unique and valuable asset to SVL Inc., embodying a perfect synergy of technical acumen and a zest for life's adventurous aspects.

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