MNIPL shared three major findings from the project:
- Most homes can technically accommodate ASHPs, even older homes in a cold climate.
- While there are some basic metrics that can assist homeowners to assess ASHP suitability, a whole home evaluation with clients is ideal to determine those best interests.
- A home evaluation will be most effective for the homeowner if it is then followed by personal assistance and support with contextual interpretation, contractor recommendations, and incentive/finance information.
MNIPL and Just Housing presented the project findings to the public hoping that these insights will help guide future outreach, resources, and energy efficiency efforts across the region.
Bret Pence says the project opened his eyes to how quickly the technology is evolving and how creatively it can be applied.
“What surprised me the most was how flexible all kinds of heat pumps were becoming before our eyes while we were working with the homeowner group. Air to water heat pumps, packaged window heat pumps, and heat pump water heaters are three applications that jump to mind,” he recalls. “The question became not if heat pumps could be used in an older home in northern Minnesota. But, ‘How do we best use heat pump technology in a particular home to meet the homeowner’s goals?’”
Not only did the seed grant partners, the homeowners, and public benefit from this project. CERTs staff gained a thing or two as well!
“It was such a pleasure to partner with MNIPL on Heat Pump Helpers,” shares Nik Allen, Northeast CERT Regional Coordinator. “I often struggle to explain the intricacies of ASHPs and financial incentives, but their presentation breaks it down in such an accessible way that anyone can understand both how heat pumps work and also get an idea how one might work in their home.”
