This paper presents a three-dimensional numerical investigation of a geothermal standing column well (SCW) to carry out heating simulations during January in four selected locations in Jordan. It is shown that the outlet temperature of SCW increases with the depth of the borehole. However, the successful choice of the location is of extreme importance as there is a limit on the outlet temperature that can be achieved at a given location. It is demonstrated that bleeding is generally effective in increasing the outlet temperature. An optimum range of bleed rate exists around 12-13%. Also, bleeding is more effective in achieving higher outlet temperatures when used in locations with higher soil porosity. Copyright (c) 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.