More and more homes and public buildings in Eagle County are jumping on the heat pump bandwagon. The technology is getting better and better, and it’s all part of the move towards ‘beneficial electrification.’ Heat pumps aren’t your typical furnaces or air conditioners, but they can do both jobs. They work by exchanging indoor and outdoor air, and there are two main types: ground source units that tap into geothermal energy and air source units that exchange indoor and outdoor air.
Nikki Maline, the Energy Programs director at Walking Mountains Science Center, mentioned that about 35 local homeowners are taking advantage of rebate programs to install heat pump units this year. Holy Cross Energy is offering some pretty generous rebates and tax credits, making heat pumps a serious consideration for many. However, it’s important to note that the efficiency of these units drops as the temperature goes down. Despite this, technological advancements have made cold weather-rated units more efficient, and many systems now come with backup options like electric heating units or old gas furnaces.
The county has already hopped on the heat pump train, installing units at its vehicle maintenance facility in Gypsum. These units are not only heating and cooling the offices but also distributing air to different parts of the building. The county is even exploring the use of ground source heat pumps for its administration building in Eagle, although this type of system comes with a hefty price tag.
Energy consultant David Petroy highlighted the long-term benefits of ground source heat pumps, especially for larger buildings. He pointed out that the initial expense is due to the limited number of firms that can drill the necessary boreholes, but once installed, the system can last for over 100 years. The county is also considering heat pump conversions for some of its older buildings, all in the name of efficiency and a greener energy environment.
Petroy suggested that people building new homes should seriously consider heat pump systems, especially with the available rebates and tax credits. For those replacing their current heating or cooling units, it’s a decision that requires a bit more consideration. While the upfront cost may be higher, the long-term benefits and efficiency of heat pumps make them a worthy investment. Plus, they can help insulate homeowners from fluctuating natural gas prices and are particularly beneficial for rural areas that rely on expensive propane fuel.
Overall, heat pumps are becoming a popular choice for homeowners and public buildings, especially with the availability of rebates for households within a certain income bracket. It’s a step towards a greener and more efficient future, and it’s definitely something to consider for anyone looking to upgrade their heating and cooling systems.
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