For Denver grandmother Laura Lopez, installing a heat pump turned out to be more than a home upgrade; it was a breath of fresher, safer, healthier air. In her bustling home of seven, three family members, including her husband and two young grandchildren, often struggled with respiratory issues. When Laura learned that gas appliances, including her own, could be harmful to people with breathing issues, she set out to improve the indoor air quality for her family.
Her search began unexpectedly at a local community event. Laura stopped by the Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC) table and decided to sign up “just to see what it’s all about.” Before long, EOC had recommended a heat pump system. Like many Coloradans, Laura didn’t know much about heat pumps, let alone what a heat pump was. Naturally, there was some hesitation—especially since she’d installed a new gas furnace only two years earlier. But after learning how a heat pump could make her home safer and more comfortable, and that her gas furnace could still serve as a backup for colder weather, she decided to go for it.
“It was completely paid for by EOC. Isn’t that amazing? Such a blessing.”
EOC recommended and installed a dual-fuel heat pump, an induction stove, attic insulation, a new electric panel, a bathroom renovation with mold remediation, air-conditioning, and a heat pump dryer. Best of all, because Laura qualified for EOC’s rebate program, everything was fully covered. “It was completely paid for by EOC. Isn’t that amazing? Such a blessing,” Laura says. From start to finish, the installation process was simple and stress-free. Her contractor walked her through each step, explaining how everything worked.
“I have two grandkids who definitely had breathing problems… and that drastically improved.”
The results have been life-changing. Her grandchildren, who used to get colds that lingered for weeks, now recover faster and get sick less often. “I have two grandkids who definitely had breathing problems, and that drastically improved. The colds would last a long time. They’d be sick for at least two weeks. Now if they get a cold, it’s gone in a week.” And while her previous AC unit would never cool the house, her upgrades keep the home consistently comfortable—cool in the summer and warm in the winter. And, she finds the new system user-friendly and easy to control from her phone.
The savings have been another pleasant surprise. Laura’s energy bills are significantly lower, sometimes even negative. And, because she’s enrolled in Community Solar, she hasn’t had to pay Xcel in months and even has a $300 credit.
For Laura, switching to a heat pump changed everything. Her family’s health. Her personal comfort. Her entire outlook on what’s possible. The air is cleaner, her bills are lower, and her home finally feels the way it should. And best of all? Home is now where everyone breathes a little lighter, safer and healthier.