[Eric in the Ozarks]

As we were planning our Missouri retirement house, we looked at several high-tech heating/cooling systems and even a solar electric (off the grid) system. We settled on the Waterfurnace because the company had a good track record and we got to interview others in this area who used our installer. A bonus is that the unit also produces heat for the thermal floor in the lower level which we covered with tile.
I don't think this system would work very well in a northern climate like Minnesota but since our heating demands are moderate, it manages our needs without constantly running (like our gas furnace did in the Twin Cities.) A good amount of blown-in cellulose insulation and high quality Andersen windows have made this place very comfortable.

[eraser2005]

Actually, a relative has one up there....

They work quite well in northern climates. You just need more feet of ground loop for a higher tonnage system.

Some areas also have incentives for installation. If I lived about 20 miles further out into the country, the electrical co-op there will pay for the excavation for a ground loop system to be installed. Not only will they pay for the excavation, but they will give reduced electric rates ("We also have a reduced kWh rate of 1¢ from 1001-2000 kWhs each month") and offer 5% fixed rate loans for remaining installation costs....