Vermonters looking for electric heating and cooling solutions have more choices thanks to VGS’s (Vermont Gas) trio of heat pump solutions, including ductless mini-split heat pumps, centrally ducted heat pumps, and heat pump water heaters.
“Heat pumps are well-suited for Vermonters who want to stay warm in the winter and comfortable in the summer,” said VGS President & CEO Neale Lunderville. “Since we started helping our customers install heat pump technology in 2022, we’ve seen steady growth in demand. Whether you are looking for an efficient appliance to warm water, add a heating or cooling option to a space, or use a centrally ducted system to heat or cool your entire home, VGS can help you identify the best technology to meet your goals.”
Heat pumps have experienced growing rates of adoption across the U.S. and northeast thanks to their efficiency and ability to perform in cold weather climates. VGS technicians have installed more than 450 heat pump systems since the company first offered electric heat pump water heaters in 2022. At the time, the company was the first gas-only utility in the U.S. to provide heat pump water heaters. In 2023, VGS began installing centrally ducted heat pumps. Ductless mini-split heat pumps followed in 2024.
VGS’s technicians are trained to help customers understand their heating and cooling options. The process begins with an on-site consultation to assess the building’s energy profile. From there, a system is designed to fit the space and budget. VGS teams walk the user through all their options. Beyond heating and cooling appliances, customers can access cost saving rebates for comprehensive home weatherization services.
“Our goal is to help Vermonters learn how to heat and cool their homes as efficiently as possible,” said Grace Amao, VGS’s Vice President of Customers & Energy Services. “We’ve fine-tuned our products and services to ensure they are a good fit for Vermont’s climate and will provide value season after season. With convenient leasing options and service plans, customers can rest assured their heat pump investment is maintained and working its best year round.”
These systems have multiple benefits. In many cases, heat pumps are more efficient than fossil fuel combustion systems. If you currently heat with propane or fuel oil, heat pumps could help you lower your energy bill. VGS provides a tool to help compare heating costs for different fuel types.
VGS offers attractive sales, lease, and maintenance plan options for heat pumps, with incentives realized up front to lower the cost at the time of purchase. Extra incentives, including Federal tax credits, are also available for income-qualified customers.
About the heat pump systems VGS installs
Centrally ducted heat pumps utilize existing ductwork in a home. This configuration employs a smart thermostat to integrate a cold climate heat pump with a furnace. The heat pump is set as the primary heating source, while the gas furnace serves as an auxiliary backup system. The smart thermostat toggles between heat sources based upon outdoor temperature and the user’s desired comfort settings. VGS provides an estimator to understand the relationship of carbon and cost savings depending on how these hybrid systems are configured.
Ductless mini-split systems consist of an outdoor condenser unit and indoor air handler that’s mounted to a wall. Ductless mini-split heat pumps can provide heating and cooling for the entire home or be used to make specific areas more comfortable. Configurations include standalone applications or integration with existing heating systems using a smart thermostat. VGS offers a calculator to understand the efficiency and cost of operating these systems relative to other fuel options.
Heat pump water heaters are an efficient, low-carbon solution for water heating needs. These units can be installed in place of existing water heaters and are up to 63% more efficient than other fuel or traditional electric heaters. Operating in heat pump mode acts as a dehumidifier, providing added benefits when installed in basement spaces.
With all of the models available in the marketplace, VGS has focused its resources to streamline the process for Vermonters seeking cost-effective options to heat and cool their home. VGS is also piloting new heat pump technology as it seeks to scale solutions for larger businesses and commercial and industrial uses.
These efforts are part of a comprehensive approach to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with State requirements. VGS continues to evolve its business model to reduce energy usage, increase access to the latest and most efficient heating systems, and displace fossil fuels with low- or no-carbon alternative supply.
VGS customers and Vermonters in surrounding communities who want to learn more can visit vgsvt.com/heatpumps/ or contact VGS’s care team at (800) 639-2112 to learn more.
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