Salem is Oregon’s capital and one of the larger cities on Provision’s list, reached down the valley from Molalla. It has nearly every kind of house: historic homes near downtown, postwar ranches, split-levels in the hills to the south and west, and new subdivisions on the edges.
Salem also caught two of the Northwest’s defining recent weather events: the June 2021 heat dome, when the city hit 117°F, and the February 2021 ice storm that left much of the area without power for days. Both changed how people think about cooling and reliable heat.
Heating & cooling in Salem
What Salem homes ask of a system.
After the heat dome
Many Salem homes went without air conditioning for decades. Since 2021, adding cooling, often through a heat pump that replaces an old furnace or electric heat, is one of the most common requests.
Ice-storm winters
Ice storms bring outages and hard restarts. A system with properly set backup heat and a heat pump that defrosts correctly recovers best.
Utilities vary
Most of Salem is served by PGE, while Salem Electric serves parts of the city. Incentives differ, so check your utility before replacing equipment.
Every era of house
From original duct systems in older neighborhoods to tight, newer builds, each era needs its own approach to sizing and airflow.
Salem questions
Asked in Salem.
Does Provision work in Salem?
Yes. Salem is on Provision’s service list. Call or text (971) 374-3227 to set up an on-site consultation.
My Salem house has a furnace but no AC. Can I add cooling?
Yes. The two usual routes are adding a central air conditioner or heat pump to the existing furnace and ductwork, or replacing the setup with a heat pump system. If you have no ducts, ductless mini-splits work well. The on-site consultation sorts out which fits.
Who supplies power in Salem, and does it matter for rebates?
Most of Salem is served by Portland General Electric, whose customers can use Energy Trust of Oregon incentives. Parts of the city are served by Salem Electric, which has its own programs. Check with your utility before you buy.
Nearby
Also serving nearby.
Smell gas? Leave the house, don’t flip switches, and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. CO alarm sounding? Get everyone out and call 911. No heat in a freeze? Call, and never use an oven or grill indoors for heat.