Home & Garden
Long Island Family Upgrades From Oil To Heat Pumps And Saves Big
Rebates and low-rate financing helped make the switch affordable — and improved indoor air quality.
How an air source heat pump changed a Long Island family’s way of life.
Rich and Fran M. of Hauppauge had a very old oil boiler heating system. They knew they needed to upgrade, and they also were very interested in finding a more sustainable way to heat and cool their home.
As a former home energy inspector, Rich knew his first step was to weatherize and seal his home. “First I got the house as energy efficient as I possibly could. I sealed everything. Put in better insulation. Stuff like that,” says Rich. “And because I have been in the energy field for 20 years, I knew about the efficiency of heat pumps. And the cost savings.”
A PSEG Long Island partner contractor worked with the couple to find the perfect solution.
“Our contractor Jerritt Gluck of Bonded Energy Solutions, suggested a heat pump system that came with incredible rebates, which made it really affordable for us,” says Rich. “But it was the technology and sustainability that sold it.”
The solution was an air source heat pump system with the addition of mini-split units for the upstairs bedrooms, which meant the rooms’ temperature could be controlled separately as needed.
“I was leaning toward keeping our oil burner as a backup. But the oil is so dirty to use and expensive. And Jerritt convinced me that the heat pumps were better and work great even when it’s really cold. And they are much better—money-wise too,” says Fran.
Rich and Fran found that adding in solar panels with the heat pump system made the upgrade to a more sustainable home perfect for them. And now they’re at a net-zero cost each month. A win-win. “I look forward to getting my electric bill,” laughs Rich.
Rich’s advice to other Long Islanders? “Do you want to save money? Get a heat pump.”
Watch their story below.
Should you consider an air source heat pump, too?
Here are the top five reasons to consider upgrading:
- Efficiency and cost savings: Overall, heat pumps are up to three times more energy efficient than traditional heating. To see how much you might save with a heat pump, try this easy comparison tool.
- Low carbon footprint: Unlike burning oil or gas, which produces high carbon emissions, heat pumps significantly reduce emissions and are much cleaner for the environment..
- Cleaner and safer: Because heat pumps filter air and dehumidify it, the air you breathe in your home will be better quality. And a heat pump won’t create oil fumes, gas leaks, or carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Available in ducted or ductless models: Homes with no air ducts can use a mini-split unit in a single room or multizone plan. Or use your home’s ductwork for whole-house system comfort.
- Tax credits, incentives, rebates, and low financing rates available: There are several ways to reduce the cost of switching to a heat pump—from tax credits to rebates and financing offers. And if your household income meets eligibility requirements, you might qualify for free installation and more through PSEG Long Island’s Home Comfort Plus Program.
To learn more about air source heat pumps and how to locate a contractor to help you find a heat pump that’s right for your home, PSEG Long Island has all the information you need.
