A recent U.S. Department of Energy report states that space heating (and cooling) is the number one use of energy in our homes, resulting in high bills and consequential pollution. No doubt a ‘heat pump’ has entered your mind as an option to replace your fading furnace, but you’re worried about its cost and capacity to perform in cold weather. In reality, heat pumps are a cost-effective and energy efficient replacement for old heating and cooling systems.

Heat pumps use less energy to heat (or cool) homes and save money on bills (up to $1,000/year), in addition to reducing CO2 emissions from natural gas. They are dual functioning, meaning they heat in the winter and cool in the summer, so no need for a separate AC. They use electricity to transfer heat into and out of your home. Even if electricity is drawn from coal (still 60% of the U.S.A.), the emissions are less than a gas furnace, similar to an electric car being powered by coal instead of gas.

Cost varies depending on heat pump type, house size and local climate. It could cost up to $14,000 including installation, though the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) offers rebates up to $8,000 and tax credits up to $2,000. New technologies have drastically improved allowing heat pumps to work in cold temperatures below -10 degrees F. Finally, if you decide a heat pump isn’t right for you, other systems are available, like mini heat pumps, mini-splits, or hybrid dual-fuel heat pump systems. Tax credits and rebates from the IRA bill are also available for certain systems.

Gas furnaces typically last 10-30 years, depending on quality and maintenance. If you’re within that range, it’s time to consider electric heating options. Summit County is on track to be powered by renewables by 2030 through the Utah Renewable Communities program established by HB 411 in 2019. As heat pump technologies change, users also should adapt. Now is a great time to start researching trained contractors and the appropriate electric heating and cooling system best suited for your home – next stop is your water heater! Utah Clean

Energy (utahcleanenergy.org) is a wonderful resource for the energy-curious consumer.

By Mary Closser