Renewable Heating Hub Homeowners' Q&A

Are you considering a heat pump or already have one? Wondering how it affects your energy bills and tariff options? In this episode of Homeowners Q&A, we dive deep into the relationship between heat pumps and energy tariffs with Laurence Bradbury, Ben Watts, Chris Watling, and Peter Toth. From understanding the "spark gap" between electricity and gas prices to explorin...

Thinking about installing a heat pump? In this episode of Homeowners Q&A, we dive deep into the essentials of heat pump design with industry experts Graeme Ross (Greystone Energy), Liam Riddex (Dex Renewables), Rob Berridge (Rob Berridge Designs), Simon Murray (Optimus Heating) and Ken Bone (Ultimate Renewables Suppliers). Learn why proper system design is crucial for efficiency, per...

In this episode of Homeowners Q&A, we dive into alternative renewable heating solutions for homeowners who may not be ready or suited for heat pumps. Joined by Sune Nightingale (Firepower), David Sudworth (Mr Soot), Rick Clarke (NIBE), Ben Watts (kilowatts.io) and Gavin Orson (Birdshill Renewables), we explore the viability of biomass and pellet boilers, wood burners and PVT systems. From unde...

In this episode of Homeowners Q&A we are joined by Lizzie Beland (Good Energy), Simon Smith (SA Energy), Simon Wardle (Ultimate Renewables Suppliers) and Barry Sharp (Renewable Heat) to explore the ongoing issues with heat pump installations in the UK. From the lack of skilled installers to the role of MCS accreditation and the importance of heat loss calculations, our experts share their insi...

In this episode we explore how smart technology is revolutionising heat pump efficiency. Joined by Emma Bohan (IMS Heat Pumps), Henri Castelyn (Havenwise), Luke Hodgkinson (Adia) and David Strahan (homeowner), we discuss: – How Adia’s smart control system simplifies installations, balances radiators and optimises performance. – How Havenwise’s AI-driven opti...

We tackle what homeowners often get wrong about heat pump efficiency. Joined by James Clark (Elite Services Group), Chris Watling (OVO), and Rob Berridge (Rob Berridge Heating Design Consultants) where we explore: * How to measure and improve heat pump efficiency. * The importance of weather compensation and controls. * Common mistakes that lead to high running costs....

Are buffer tanks doing more harm than good in heat pump systems? In this episode, we explore whether they are a necessary component or an outdated design choice that reduces efficiency. Our expert panel includes: Leah Robson (Your Energy Your Way), Mario Dodic (Heat Pump Consultant, Trainer & Engineer), Brendon Uys (British Gas Net Zero) and Neil Sawers (Grant). Thank you to our sponsor, Reenc...

Are hybrid heating systems (boiler and heat pump) the bridge to a low-carbon future? In this episode, we revisit hybrid heating systems, exploring the 2024 MCS guidelines and what they mean for UK homeowners. From heat pump and boiler integration to designing future-proofed systems, our panel (Neil Sawers, Graham Hendra, Graeme Ross and Chris Higgs) discusses how hybrids can provide comfort, cost...

In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we tackle the integration of heat pumps, solar panels and battery storage: the ultimate renewable energy trio. Our expert panel, including Max Waddingham and Nathan Ritson (Good Energy), Graham Hendra and Laurence Bradbury (Auream Energy), discusses: – The best installation sequence for these technologies. – The importance of choosing the right energy tariff...

Switching to a heat pump requires more than an installation – it’s a lifestyle change for the whole family. In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we're joined by Chris Higgs, Louise Howlett (RA Brown Heating Services) and Karl Richardson (Logikool) to discuss: – How to explain heat pump benefits to your family. – Adjusting to low-temperature heating systems for maximum comfort. – The importance...

Are heat pumps more affordable to run than gas boilers? In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we welcome Max Waddingham, Rob Stevens and Barry Sharp to break down the real costs of running heat pumps compared to traditional boilers. We’ll explore: – Why system design and installation quality matter for efficiency. – How weather compensation impacts running costs of heat pumps and boilers. – When...

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on heat emitters – radiators and underfloor heating – and their role in low-temperature heating systems powered by heat pumps. Our expert panel, featuring Sune Nightingale (Firepower), Rob Nezard (UK Radiators) and Rob Stevens (heat pump expert), discusses: – Why quality radiators are key to efficiency and comfort. – The role of pipe sizing and its impact on s...

In this end-of-year special, we’re joined by Brendon Uys (British Gas Net Zero), Patrick Wheeler (Vito Energy), Max Waddingham (Good Energy) and heat pump champion Graham Hendra who tackle some of the industry’s toughest questions: • Why are controllers still so poor? • Why are there are still so many subpar heat pump installations? • Will heat pumps finally go mainstream in 2025? Expect bold idea...

In this episode, Mars hosts Jonathan Moorhouse (HIES) and Dwain Byrne (Marvel Heating) to discuss the essential steps to finding a trustworthy heat pump installer. Bad installations are a growing concern, but with the right guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes. Key topics include: • Verifying installer credentials and certifications. • Understanding consumer codes like HIES and RECC. • Assessin...

Join us as James Clark (Elite Services Group) and heat pump enthusiast Graham Hendra guide homeowners through the heat pump installation journey. From the initial survey to heat loss calculations and commissioning, learn what to expect, how to vet installers and what questions to ask. Avoid common pitfalls and make the most informed decision for your home heating system. And a special thank you to...

Hybrid heating systems offer the best of both worlds: combining air source heat pumps with traditional boilers for optimal efficiency and reliability. In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we're joined by Patrick Wheeler (Vito Energy), Neil Sawers (Grant) and Graham Hendra to explore the benefits and challenges of these systems. And a special thank you to Grant UK for sponsoring this episode: ht...

Is heat pump noise keeping you awake at night? Or are you worried about complaints from your neighbours? In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about managing heat pump noise, with insights from Patrick Wheeler (Vito Energy), Graeme Ross (Greystone Energy), Chris Higgs (formerly Freedom Heat Pumps) and James Livingstone (Flexi Orb). A huge thank you to Flexi Orb for sponsoring...

We explore how solar PV, battery storage and air source heat pumps work together to create a sustainable, cost-effective heating system. With insights from Laurence Bradbury (Aurium Energy), Simon Smith (SA Energy) and Brian Beaver (GivEnergy), the panel breaks down the benefits of integrating these technologies into UK homes. Thanks to GivEnergy for sponsoring this episode: https://givenergy.co.u...

In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we dive deep into the steps homeowners should take when dealing with subpar heat pump installations. With insights from Cathryn Wolfenden (HIES) and Hassan Abdalla (REST UK), we explore the complaints process, who to contact first and how to escalate unresolved issues. Special thanks to HIES for sponsoring this episode: https://www.hiesscheme.org.uk Buy Bodg...

In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we’re troubleshooting common heat pump problems with an expert panel of guests: Rob Stevens (Heatforce), Michael Dungworth (NIBE) and Martin Perrin (Design Me A Heat Pump). From error codes to consumption spikes and compressor overloads, we cover the most frequent challenges faced by homeowners and offer practical advice to resolve them. A huge thank you to...

In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we explore everything UK homeowners need to consider when transitioning from a traditional boiler to a heat pump. Our expert panel, featuring Barry Sharp (Renewable Heat), Robin Furze (Good Energy), Rob Berridge (Rob Berridge Heating Design Consultants) and Patrick Wheeler (Vito Energy), dives into the necessary steps of retrofitting a heat pump, from assess...

We explore the various types of heat pumps available and help homeowners decide which type might be best for their specific needs. This episode’s panel includes Karl Richardson (Logicool), Brendon Uys (British Gas Net Zero) and Rob Stevens (Heatforce), three experts with deep insights into the UK’s renewable heating landscape. We cover the fundamentals of heat pump technology, look at the advantag...

In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we’re diving deep into heat pump monitoring and how it can benefit homeowners. Joining us are Henri Casteleyn (Havenwise), Trystan Lea (OpenEnergyMonitor/HeatPumpMonitor), Jamie Elliot (Homely), George Reburn (Planet Devices), Luke Hodgkinson (Adia) and Trevor Sweetnam (Good Energy). We cover the basics of heat pump monitoring, what each product has to offer...

Choosing the right heat pump brand can be a challenge with so many options on the market. In this episode, our panel of heat pump professionals provides expert insights into the different heat pump brands available in the UK and what homeowners should consider before making a choice. Our expert panel: Louise Howlett, RA Brown Heating Services Patrick Wheeler, Vito Energy Rob Stevens, Heatforce Gra...

In this episode of Homeowners’ Q&A, we tackle the critical topic of heat pump performance in extreme or very cold weather. We're joined by Rob Stevens from HeatForce, Brendon Uys from British Gas Net Zero, Carlos Lopes from the Swedish Energy Agency, and Andrej Hasta, a homeowner from Slovakia. Sponsored by Good Energy, this episode is a must-watch for anyone considering a heat pump in colder...