Starting with an Energy Smart Home Energy Assessment
The couple’s journey began with an Energy Smart home energy assessment through High Country Conservation Center (HC3). Energy Advisor Nick Byk conducted the assessment and helped identify opportunities for improvement.
Because they had already completed many basic efficiency measures—including installing LED lighting, air sealing key areas, and using low-flow aerators—there were no immediate quick fix measures identified during the visit. However, the assessment confirmed that the home could benefit from additional attic insulation and provided guidance for future upgrades such as heat pumps.
“The assessment helped validate what we’d already done and gave us confidence about what projects to prioritize next.”
– Cameron Millard, Homeowner
Investing in Rooftop Solar
One of the first major upgrades the family made was installing a 4-kilowatt rooftop solar system. The system was completed just before federal residential tax credits began to phase out, allowing them to maximize available incentives while reducing the household’s electricity costs. It has already delivered noticeable savings on electric bills and helps offset the energy used to charge their electric vehicle.
Improving Indoor Air Quality with an Induction Stove
As parents of a child with asthma, indoor air quality was an important consideration.
Because the home’s previous cooking setup did not vent outdoors, switching from a gas stove to an induction stove was especially appealing. By eliminating combustion from everyday cooking, the family reduced indoor air pollutants while gaining the speed and convenience of induction cooking. The upgrade supported their broader goal of creating a healthier home.
A Space-Saving Heat Pump Clothes Washer and Dryer
Another priority was installing an all-in-one heat pump clothes washer and dryer. The appliance improves efficiency while simplifying laundry. Unlike conventional dryers, the heat pump dryer requires no venting, uses significantly less energy, and offers greater installation flexibility.
“What I like about the single unit system is that it frees up space in the electrical panel, and you put your clothes in one time and they come out dry,” Cameron said.
Adding EV Charging at Home
To support the family’s electric vehicle, an electrician installed a Level 2 charger in the garage. Paired with the home’s solar system, it makes daily charging convenient and cost effective while reducing reliance on gasoline-powered transportation.
Replacing an Aging Furnace with a Cold-Climate Heat Pump
In 2026, Cameron and Erin tackled one of the home’s largest energy upgrades by replacing an aging natural gas furnace with a cold-climate heat pump.
The project took persistence. They reviewed five contractor proposals before selecting one that met their needs and came in about $4,000 lower than some competing bids. Bonus rebates from Xcel Energy’s Mountain Energy Project also made the project more affordable than installing a new furnace.
Their existing gas furnace was only about 80% efficient and had begun showing signs of corrosion.
“Getting rid of that old furnace was a big relief,” Cameron said.
The heat pump was installed in early April, giving the family a chance to test it during a cold snap in May 2026. Erin noticed an immediate difference. The system maintained comfort during the colder weather, and the family is appreciating its cooling capabilities in summer. Because it replaced both the furnace and an aging air conditioner, the installation was less complicated than expected.
The home still has a natural gas connection for a fireplace, but Cameron sees the heat pump as a major step toward reducing their reliance on fossil fuels.
“The heat pump seems like it runs at a more moderate pace, but the air is gentler and there’s a more consistent flow of circulation throughout the house.”
– Erin Allaman, Homeowner
Comfort, Safety, and Resilience
For Cameron and Erin, the benefits extend well beyond lower energy bills.
The upgrades have improved indoor air quality, created more consistent comfort, reduced dependence on aging equipment, and better prepared the home for future energy needs while providing a healthier environment for the family.
Looking Ahead
Cameron and Erin continue looking for ways to improve the home’s performance.
Additional projects include installing insulated window shades and exploring additional air sealing. Their next planned upgrade is an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV), which Cameron believes is one of the most valuable investments homeowners can make to improve indoor air quality while maintaining energy efficiency.
“An energy recovery ventilator is a really helpful air quality device that can benefit every home,” Cameron said.
Costs, Rebates and Energy Savings
Notes:
*Radon mitigation improves indoor air quality and home safety but does not produce energy savings.
**Cameron and Erin’s cold-climate heat pump installation qualified for enhanced rebates through Xcel Energy’s Mountain Energy Project, a non-pipeline initiative offering bonus incentives for electrification upgrades in response to natural gas constraints in Summit County. Although the heat pump’s increased electricity use results in a slight increase in annual utility bills, the upgrade is estimated to reduce natural gas consumption by approximately 751 therms annually and will significantly reduce fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions while improving home comfort.
PHOTO GALLERY
Cold-Climate Heat Pump
Indoor HVAC Unit
EV Charger
A Long-Term Passion for Sustainability
Cameron and Erin’s interest in high-performance homes extends well beyond their current house.
More than a decade ago, they built a net-zero-energy home near Leadville featuring geothermal heating, sustainably sourced materials, thick insulated walls, and triple-pane windows. The home continues to perform well and now serves as a long-term rental for Lake County residents.
That experience, along with Cameron’s certification as a Building Performance Institute Building Analyst, shaped their understanding of building science and continues to influence the decisions they make today.
For Cameron and Erin, energy efficiency isn’t just about lowering utility bills—it’s about creating a healthier, more comfortable, and resilient home for the long term.
