When Diane Mostad and David Berg decided to build their home in rural northern Minnesota, they knew they wanted something efficient, comfortable, and reliable. They began their journey into home heating, guided by personal research and the trusted expertise of Beltrami Electric Cooperative.
A Thoughtful Approach to Heating
David and Diane’s original plan was to build a home with a walkout basement, but cost considerations led them to a slab-on-grade design. After consulting with experts—including David’s nephew, a heating and refrigeration professional—they decided on a system that would offer both comfort and flexibility: in-floor electric heat combined with a gas furnace backup.
“Everyone we talked to recommended heating the slab because it holds warmth so well,” David explained. “My nephew suggested adding a gas furnace for backup, and he even installed it for free—just had to cover materials.”
This combination has proven to be an ideal solution. In winter, their in-floor heating keeps the home warm and cozy, while in the transitional seasons of spring and fall, the south-facing windows generate enough heat that switching to the gas furnace makes more sense. “It works well,” David said. “It’s nice to have options.”
Evolving with Energy Efficiency
Over time, the couple continued to explore ways to enhance their home’s energy efficiency. Initially, they installed central air conditioning, but when their unit failed, they saw it as an opportunity to upgrade to an air-source heat pump.
“We had been reading about heat pumps for a while,” Diane shared. “When our air conditioner failed, we decided it was time to make the switch.” Air-source heat pumps have gained popularity for their ability to provide both cooling and heating, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional heating methods. With their home already outfitted with ductwork, the transition was seamless. “The heat pump's efficiency is going to help lower our bills while keeping us comfortable year-round,” David noted.
The Value of Cooperative Service
Through every step of their home heating journey, Beltrami Electric Cooperative has been a trusted partner. Diane and David have benefited from the cooperative’s reliability, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to member service. “The continuity and reliability are what we appreciate most,” Diane said. “Beltrami Electric has been progressive in keeping up with technology, underground lines, and environmentally friendly power solutions.”
Planning Ahead for a Smarter Home
For those considering building or upgrading their heating systems, Diane offers practical advice: “Think ahead. Plan for what’s best for your home in the long run.”
Beltrami Electric provides multiple programs to support members in making smart energy decisions, including off-peak heating programs. These programs allow homeowners to use electricity during low-demand times at a reduced rate, leading to significant cost savings over time.
As energy technology continues to evolve, members like Diane and David are proof that with a little planning, the right support, and a commitment to efficiency, rural homeowners can enjoy both comfort and cost savings—all while benefiting from the power of off-peak heating and cooperative membership.