Historical Architectural Exhibit Explores What Modern Ductless Heat Pumps Could Have Done for Pioneers

The world’s fascination with historical landmarks and buildings does not seem to be going anywhere. In fact, this past summer there was a gathering of architects and they explored how modern electricity and technology could have helped or hurt pioneers.

“We gathered in a round table style discussion to talk about how modern electricity and technology could have helped or hurt the pioneers”, explained Craig Fillmore, a 20 year architect based out of Cleveland, Ohio. “One of the major topics of discussion was ductless heat pumps.”

Ductless heat pumps have been around for a number of years, but it wasn’t until several years ago that they became increasingly popular. This is the first year that the topic of how these heating systems could have helped the pioneers.

“It is long thought that many fires that destroyed the pioneers’ cabins and homes could have been prevented if there was a non-fire way to heat the homes”, said Fillmore. “It is thought that the ductless heat pumps could have provided the heat needed to keep everyone safe and warm, while protecting the homes from destruction.”

The panel of lecturers even went as far as to create slideshows and models that would show how the pioneers would have incorporated the heat pumps into their homes. In fact, it would have benefited the families as they could heat more than one room in a cabin.

“We see many examples of what would have been an older heat pump system”, said Tony Underwood, a history buff. “Unfortunately, the pioneers would use fires and other things to heat the homes. The heat would travel to the other rooms, but the fires were dangerous and many times the homes were destroyed due to a simple spark.”

The slideshows and models that were used for the discussion will be available for viewing at several science centers across America. People will be gathering around the exhibits to see exactly how modern technology and other items would have impacted the pioneers and settlers.

“This is going to be a really popular exhibit”, said Sammy Thomas, a curator at one of the science centers. “We already have a lot of people expressing interest in seeing this type of exhibit. So, I cannot wait until it is ready for viewing.”