IGSHPA has led the way in providing a complete set of standards for Ground Source Heat Pump / Geothermal systems.
IGSHPA provides the ANSI/CSA/IGSHPA C448 Bi-National American-Canadian Standard to its members at a discounted rate of $100. There is also a free view-only version available at the link below. The 2017 IGSHPA Design and Installation Standards (#21035) are still available until the next edition of the C448 standard is published at which time the IGSHPA Standards will be sunset. A free online copy can be download at the link below.
ANSI/CSA/IGSHPA C448 Series-16 Bi-National American–Canadian Standard (#21036)

Design and installation of ground source heat pump systems for commercial and residential buildings
This is the first edition of the binational ANSI/CSA C448 Series, Design and installation of ground source heat pump systems for commercial and residential buildings. It supersedes the previous editions published in 2013 and 2002 under the title, Design and installation of earth energy systems.
Member Price: $100.00
- Read the full End User Copyright License Agreement
- Publication type: PDF
- IGSHPA Members: Order C448 Series-16 Online via our Square Store for $100.
- Non Members: Order C448 Series-16 Online via CSA Group for $155 (you will be redirected to CSA Group).
- View C448 Series-16 for Free (a free CSA Communities account is required).
IGSHPA Design and Installation Standards
IGSHPA Standards Committee Mission
The objective of this committee is to write industry standards that:
- help protect the environment and our natural resources,
- help to ensure the thermal performance of the critical components of the system, and
- are written in such a manner as to allow for new innovations and ideas that might improve the first two objectives.

IGSHPA has led the way in providing a complete set of standards for GHP systems. This 2017 updated edition incorporates all the changes recommended by the IGSHPA Standards Committee since 1994, and is a must for everyone involved in the GHP industry. This manual covers design and installation standards for closed-loop ground heat exchangers, pipe placement and backfilling, indoor piping and circulation systems, geothermal heat pumps, and site planning, records, and restoration.
View a FREE PDF copy of the 2017 Design and Installation Standards.
- If you would like to print your copy, please access the IGSHPA’s Members page.
Professional Qualification Standard for Residential/Light Commercial Designers
This Professional Qualifications Standard is intended to serve as a source of minimum qualifications for the Residential/Light-Commercial Ground Source Heat Pump System Designer. The purpose of this professional qualifications document is to provide minimum job requirements for individuals designing residential and light-commercial ground source heat pump systems. The Standard may be used for training, education, and professional development. In addition, the Standard may be adopted by an Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for the purpose of professional certification.
Download the Professional Qualification Standard for Residential/Light Commercial Designers.