The technology has been used in many countries for more than 20 years, and a properly maintained system should last for 25 years or more. No components are exposed to harsh outdoor elements, so deterioration due to weather or physical damage is avoided. There are few moving parts to minimize maintenance.

A consumer should request a copy of both the manufacturer's warranty and the contractor's warranty, in writing. Most heat pumps come with a one-year general warranty and a five-year warranty on the compressor, and extended warranties are available. The polyethylene pipe carries a warranty of 25 years or more. Contractors offer a workmanship warranty.

All units transfer solar energy from the ground into a building, where a compressor converts that energy into warm air or warm water. Options on various models include two-speed compressors, demand water heaters, quad functions and electronic diagnostics, among others. Units should be certified to ISO performance levels (formerly CSA or ARI ratings), to make the COP the key variable among different manufacturers.

The 'protected' nature of a geoexchange system makes it less likely to fail than any other system. Utility line spiking and other external problems can damage electronic contacts or circuit boards (but these spikes would also harm computers, televisions and other systems). Like a refrigerator, the compressor has the highest risk of failure and is the most expensive component to replace. Most units carry a warranty of at least five years.