Greed: Saving Now, Paying Later with Poor Performance

When the Johnsons invested in a Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) system for their new office building, they were excited about cutting energy costs and going green. But just two years later, the system was underperforming, their energy bills were climbing, and servicing costs were piling up. What went wrong?

The culprit was clear: cutting corners. The building’s operator wasn’t properly trained, small maintenance issues were ignored, and cheap tools made it impossible to track performance. Like many others, the Johnsons learned the hard way that short-term savings can lead to long-term headaches.

The Hidden Costs of Cutting Corners

GSHP systems are marvels of technology, but they require proper care to perform well. Unfortunately, some building owners skimp on training for operators or choose outdated, unreliable tools to save money upfront.

This lack of investment can turn minor issues—like unusual temperature readings—into expensive repairs. Worse, some companies overpromise on energy savings, leaving customers disappointed when the system doesn’t deliver as expected. Cutting corners may seem like saving money now, but it often results in lost efficiency, higher costs, and frustrated stakeholders down the line.

How to Get It Right

Now, let’s imagine a different story. In this version, the Johnsons prioritize quality from day one. They invest in regular retro-commissioning to fine-tune their system, ensuring it runs at peak efficiency. Their operator has an interactive dashboard that provides real-time data on the Ground Heat Exchanger (GHX), helping them catch and fix issues early.

Automated reports keep everyone in the loop, from maintenance staff to building owners, with actionable insights that optimize energy savings. Instead of dealing with costly repairs, the Johnsons are saving money and enjoying the system’s full benefits.

When greed takes over—whether it’s skipping training, underfunding tools, or overpromising performance—the result is often wasted potential and higher costs. But when you invest in the right tools, training, and regular system monitoring, a GSHP system can deliver impressive energy savings, lower costs, and a smaller environmental footprint.

Don’t let greed undermine your investment. For more tips on getting the most out of your GSHP system, check out our Seven Deadly Sins Series, where we explore the common mistakes to avoid for a successful and efficient system.