Our adventure transitioning our home from gas to electric began when a dear family member accidentally hit a gas line when helping us expand our deck. We immediately called Avista to shut off the gas. This event caused us to do what we’d already considered: move toward all-electric power in our home.
Electric rates in our region are, and will probably continue to be, among the lowest in the country, and as renewable energy resources come online, moving away from fossil fuels makes sense for the future. Also, given the documented concerns about home air quality, we were concerned about the effect of emissions from our gas stove on our young grandchildren. Replacing it with an electric induction stove was a no-brainer for us.
Our gas dryer was inefficient and aging, so it went to the Habitat ReStore, as did a gas water heater. And then came the biggest replacement: the gas furnace. Our new heat pump keeps us warm in the winter, and cool during summer’s extreme heat events.
This was an expensive but necessary transition for us. How could we have planned for it more efficiently and economically? For most folks, the time to start the transition is when an old gas appliance needs to be replaced anyway. Before that happens, though, it is worthwhile to plan ahead.
Since home heating and cooling is the major energy expense for most, planning for a heat pump (ducted if you already have air ducts, or a mini-split) is the best place to start. To prepare for a heat pump, think about two things. First, an energy audit: it will make sure your home’s envelope is tight. (The audit of our well-insulated home revealed air leaks at doors and windows.) Avista provides free energy audits. Do this in any case, because the audit will show you how to save on your energy bills.
Then, consider the demand of a heat pump on your electrical system. Look at your electrical panel: if it’s rated at 150 amps or more, you’re probably ready for a heat pump. Your power needs will be somewhat dependent on various factors, though, so consulting with an experienced HVAC contractor at this point is critical. Local HVAC contractors are increasingly knowledgeable about heat pump technology: call around to find one with experience. You might also ask about a “smart panel,” which will optimize your overall power use.
New generation heat pumps are efficient to as low as minus 15 degrees, so in our climate, a backup heating system isn’t necessary. And with the increasing occurrence of heat domes, the cooling provided by heat pumps is a real plus.
After dealing with home heating, the next appliances to consider replacing are the clothes dryer, water heater and stove. The dryer and stove will need a 120/240 volt circuit pulled from your electrical panel if you don’t already have that. Any electric stove is better than gas for air quality, but induction cooktops offer the additional benefit of much greater efficiency, speed of heating and cooling, ease of cleaning and safety, since the cooktop itself doesn’t get hot.
As to water heating, the new heat pump water heaters are much more efficient than both tank and on-demand gas or electric heaters. They are also more pricey than traditional water heaters, but the cost is coming down as there’s more demand. Find a contractor with experience with them.
Planning for this transition may seem overwhelming, but fortunately there is help out there. The Rewiring America website offers a customized guide based on your own circumstances: shorturl.at/BJ64Q. It also details the financial incentives which will reduce the cost of your investment in electrification. Many of these cost savings come through the Inflation Reduction Act, passed by Congress in August 2022. Just as an example, there are currently tax rebates of up to $2,000 for heat pumps and their installation, and state-administered incentives are now coming online: they can cover up to $8,000 for heat pumps.
There are similar rebates and incentives for upgrading your electrical service and energy-efficient electric appliances. (These incentives also stimulate jobs and manufacturing, a reason there was bipartisan support for the IRA). Numerous websites list these. Local contractors and retailers should also know about these incentives.
Previous Saving Green columns provide more information about many of these topics, including heat pumps, energy audits, water heaters and induction stoves: you can find them at shorturl.at/H7sw2.
There are many advantages to an all-electric home. You’ll save money on energy costs in the long run. Tax credits and incentives will make your initial investment more manageable. Your home will have a higher resale value (between 2% and 8%). And you will be freed from dependence on fossil fuels and their climate impacts.
Mary DuPree has lived on the Palouse for over 50 years. She is Co-Leader of the Citizens’ Climate, Palouse Chapter.
