Maine households are increasingly turning to electric heat pumps to keep their homes warm, according to WMTW 8.
According to census data cited by the state, the share of households using heating oil as their primary heat source has fallen 20% since 2018. At the same time, electricity consumption for home heating has almost doubled.
According to the Department of Energy, space heating is the largest cost in U.S. homes, accounting for about 45% of energy bills. Meanwhile, upgrading an old HVAC system to a heat pump system can save homeowners hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year, according to the Department of Energy.
Because they are less energy intensive than traditional HVAC systems and do not rely on the use of polluting, dirty fuels like gas, electric heat pumps are also more environmentally friendly. Rewiring America estimates that 98% of households would reduce their carbon emissions by installing such a device. These devices also help simplify temperature control since they can serve as both a heating and cooling system.
You still have time to take advantage of federal tax credits that could save you thousands of dollars on the cost of a heat pump system, but you must make a qualifying purchase before the end of the year.
Although the choices can be overwhelming, TCD's HVAC Explorer can help you choose the right heat pump solutions for your home and budget, including high-efficiency systems. Our HVAC Explorer can also connect you with trained professionals on our trusted network to get the installation process started.
A partner in the TCD network, Palmetto, can help you save up to 50% on your home's heating and cooling costs while offering $0 down payment HVAC leasing options. HVAC system leasing can significantly help homeowners save money by providing a dozen years of free maintenance, potentially reducing the overall expense of your system.
Maine Governor Janet Mills attributed the increasing use of heat pumps in homes to her administration's efforts to expand access to the technology.
“This advancement makes a real difference for Maine people and businesses by improving their energy efficiency and reducing energy costs,” she said in a statement.
Acting Commissioner Dan Burgess of the Maine Department of Energy Resources added, “Maine has long sought to reduce its reliance on heating oil, and this unprecedented decline demonstrates how important investments in energy efficiency are reducing energy costs while growing our economy.”
Those interested in even greater energy savings at home should consider combining an upgraded HVAC system with solar panels. TCD's Solar Explorer is a wonderful starting point to connect you with trusted partners. Additionally, you can check out the free Palmetto Home app to unlock up to $5,000 in rewards for home improvements you're planning on making anyway.
💰Get TCD's free newsletters with simple tips to save more, waste less and make smarter decisions – and earn up to $5,000 on clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
