What's So Cool About Heat Pumps?

A lot of people are asking themselves if they should consider using a heat pump for heating and cooling and whether it will really use less energy and save them money. Many consumers question whether heat pumps will work well in colder climates. The Rocky Mountain Institute describes the improvements that have been made to heat pump technology pointing to the fact that heat pumps have been successfully field tested in Minnesota and even in the Arctic Circle. As noted in WIRED magazine, nine states, California, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Rhode Island, have signed a memorandum of understanding to accelerate the transition to zero emissions in residential buildings. All have launched campaigns in concert with public utilities to use federal tax credits and direct funding incentives to encourage the shift towards residential energy efficiency through the use of heat pumps. There are several types of heat pumps available to consumers and in many states consumers can access lists of contractors through their local utility company who are qualified to evaluate the best heat pump type and installation design for your home.