Hello everyone! This is Bill, the owner of Vermont Renovation and Remodeling, and today we’re going to discuss a topic that’s crucial for every homeowner in our beautiful state – heating systems.

In Vermont, we experience a unique blend of seasons, each with its own charm and challenges. From the crisp winters to the vibrant fall and the unpredictable ‘stick season’, our weather can be quite a rollercoaster. This variability makes choosing the right heating system for your home an important decision.

Traditionally, homes in Vermont weren’t built with central air or heat pumps. However, as the climate has changed, we’re seeing a shift in this trend. More and more homes, including our own farmhouse that we’re currently renovating, are opting for ducted heat pumps.

The decision to choose a particular heating system often comes down to cost-effectiveness. For some, tweaking the current system to fit their needs might be the most economical choice. However, for others like my wife and I, who live in an old farmhouse with an incorrectly sized system, it’s more cost-effective to install a brand new system.

When it comes to aesthetics, especially in historic homes, mini splits might not be the best fit. That’s why we’re opting for a top-of-the-line, customizable system that will serve our family for the next 30 years.

In Vermont, the main heat sources you’ll find are natural gas, propane, and electric, which could be a heat pump system. Woodstoves are also a good supplemental or emergency backup option. However, I would urge you to consider what a heat pump system could offer you and your family. With the current rebates from the state and federal government, it’s an option that’s worth exploring.

That being said, it’s important to consider the infrastructure of your home before making a decision. For instance, if you want to install a heat pump system, you need to ensure that your current electrical panel can handle it. In our case, we had to upgrade our panel as part of the renovation.

If you’re considering a heat pump system, I highly recommend consulting with specialists. There are numerous manufacturers selling heat pumps, and it’s crucial to choose a reputable one. In our case, we went with the unit system, a well-established manufacturer known for their quality products.

The choice of heating system impacts not just your comfort and energy bills, but also the environment and your health. Many modern systems come with air purifiers, improving the air quality in your home.

I hope this discussion has provided some valuable insights into the world of heating systems. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, or if there’s a specific topic you’d like me to dive into, please let me know. I’m here to help you navigate the complexities of home renovation and remodeling in Vermont.