VIROQUA, Wis. – The Vernon County Historical Society (VCHS) has launched a fundraising campaign to raise funds to install a heating and cooling system at the Vernon County Museum on Center Ave. in Viroqua, just off Main Street.
Installing or improving the heating and cooling systems in the building has been a long-time goal of the organization as portions building are limited by extreme weather. The improvements will add heating and cooling (HVAC system) for the 2nd and 3rd floor display rooms. Organizers say this is the minimum project needed to make the Museum a true 12-month operation.
The total cost of the project is $125,000 with approx $32,000 already raised. The VCHS needs to raise an additional $93,000 to complete this air-to-air heat pump system. Insulating the attic is also included in the total cost. The plan is to begin the installation by mid-summer 2025 providing the funds have been raised.
Focus on energy efficiency and least intrusive system
Mini-split heat pumps are ductless two-way air conditioning systems that work to both heat and cool. The system consists of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air handling units – called “heads” – that connect via refrigerant line sets.
This is the most efficient technology available operating totally on renewable electric power. Installation will use existing air duct work as pipe chases to preserve the historic nature of the museum. HVAC Equipment is oversized to accommodate future room units in hallways if needed.
Insulating the attic is also included in the total cost. The plan is to begin the installation by mid-summer 2025 providing the funds have been raised.
VCHS says there will be numerous benefits as a result of the project including :
- Preserving history for future generations by saving our historic museum building and its artifacts.
- Providing a comfortable work environment for volunteers and staff to work on exhibits, care for collections, and do basic cleaning all year long.
- Enhancing the ability to work with area school districts during the entire school year may encourage a new generation of volunteers to become active while increasing the membership of the VCHS.
- Allow for more climate-controlled space to bring in larger displays from outside sources.
- Provides inexpensive or free activities for residents, visitors and out-of-state tourists which is much needed in the cold winter months.
- Maximizes the use of the elevator investment. The project will be a model for the next era of energy efficiency in Viroqua, Vernon County and Wisconsin at large.
- Other vintage property owners may be inspired to make air source heat pumps part of their building upgrades
Checks must be made out to the Viroqua Area Foundation/Museum HVAC Project.
PLEASE MAIL YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO:
VIROQUA AREA FOUNDATION C/O
VERNON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
P.O. BOX 262
VIROQUA, WI 54665
Credit card donations can easily be made on the Viroqua Area Foundation Website.
VCHS will also accept HVAC pledges for a future year or more from donors who make a cash donation in 2025. VCHS can use these pledges to support a bank loan to complete the building upgrade if necessary.
The Museum office will also accept donations and can be reached at 608-637-7396.
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