WOODLAND, Maine — Woodland’s town office, which shares space with the Union 122 superintendent’s office and town garage, may offset fuel oil costs by purchasing a new geothermal heat pump.
The board of selectmen, during their Nov. 15 meeting, talked about adding a pump to the budget. They’re currently considering three different models, which range from $3,000 to $3,700.
Town Clerk Janet Schofield said the prices include installation, and that the pumps could significantly offset fuel costs for the building, ultimately saving local taxpayers in the long run.
“The quotes we were given had sales tax in them so the prices would change,” Schofield said. “We’re going to table this and get some more quotes to see if we can get an expandable heat pump that can go back into the superintendent’s office.”
While the town is currently undecided about a specific pump, one model they considered was from Mitsubishi while the other two were from Fujitsu. The heaters are capable of producing a range of 15,000 to 18,000 BTUs.
Schofield added that the technology is also quiet, electric, and energy efficient.
Selectman Will Barnum said that when the town office portion of the building was added, a new zone for a heating system was not omitted.
Administrative Assistant and Treasurer Amber Moutinho added that the office’s current heating system has presented issues to municipal staff in the past.
“It’s hard to create constant temperature,” Moutinho said. “There are mornings where we get here and it’s 52 degrees, even though it was set on 68 all night. Then, by the afternoon, it’s around 76, so you have to wear your jacket up until lunch time.”
Selectman Carl Grant recommended putting information about the heat pumps in the budget packet for consideration while the town determines the upcoming budget.
