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What if the future of heating lies in spontaneous collaboration? Join us as we host Andrew Cunningham, a retrofit coordinator turned heating industry expert, who walks us through his journey and his innovative approach to accelerating heat pump adoption. Andrew shares his experiences working with Peter Miller and organizing an "unconference" that pushes the boundaries of traditional industry events, featuring no set speakers or agendas but instead fostering spontaneous and collaborative discussions. Plus, get an insider’s perspective on the latest developments from the Installer Show in Birmingham.

How will the upcoming elections impact the heating market? We tackle significant advancements and the persistent challenges facing the heat pump industry over the past three years. From the drive for increased efficiency to the necessity of upskilling heating engineers, the industry is at a crossroads. With a special focus on the potential impact of a Labour win and the current lack of clear policies, we also shed light on the power dynamics between the gas industry and the emerging heat pump sector.

Have you ever wondered how effective it is to engage your local MP on renewable energy issues? We explore this question by discussing the nuances of contacting local MPs, including the pros and cons of handwritten letters versus in-person meetings. Notable political figures like Richard Lowes, Lord Kalanan, and Ed Miliband are highlighted for their roles in shaping energy policies. We wrap up with an in-depth discussion on the costs and tariffs for heat pumps from British Gas and Octopus Energy, pointing out the pressing need for clearer government guidance on energy pricing. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive conversation about the future of heating, politics, and renewable energy solutions.

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Our longest podcast yet!!
But well worth listening to the end.

Get ready to turn up the heat with our guest, Nathan Gambling: heating industry expert, master plumber, and host of the podcast Beta Talk. Let Nathan's passion ignite your curiosity as he shares his family legacy, starting with his grandfather's pioneering work in domestic central heating. We explore the fascinating science of heat, the evolution of the industry, and the indispensable role of thermostats and TRVs.

As we shift gears, we tackle the implications of the government's ambitious plan to install 600,000 heat pumps a year, and how this affects us all. Nathan unravels the complexities of boilers and heat pumps, and how heating system efficiency can significantly impact the environment. We also take a deep dive into the crowded domestic heating market, discussing the hurdles faced by heating engineers as they adapt to rapidly evolving technologies.

Finally, we touch on the critical role of training and qualifications in the heating industry. Nathan shares his own journey transitioning to a City & Guilds course and offers invaluable advice to apprentices. We discuss the future of renewable energy in the heating sector, exploring the distinctions between solar PV and solar thermal. By the end of this episode, you'll be well-versed in the regulatory landscape of the heating industry, the potential of hybrid systems, and the future of heating systems. Join us on this enlightening journey with Nathan Gambling!

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Ever wondered what a Conservative win in Uxbridge could mean for politics? Pull up a chair with Stuart and me as we dissect recent by-elections and speculate on the potential implications. We also navigate the murky waters of environmental standards, from the London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to Manchester's proposed Clean Air Zone. We question the affordability of upgrading vehicles to meet these standards and debate whether electric vehicles are the ultimate solution, or just a temporary fix.

Not only that, but we also debunk some of the most common plumbing and heating myths. We dig deep into the responsibilities of the waterboard, the significance of minor leaks, and the misconceptions surrounding boilers and flushability of wipes. Pivoting to gas engineering, we discuss the critical importance of gas safety regulations and reveal common missteps that can lead to clogs. Plus, we explore the pivotal role of technology in streamlining gas rate calculations. Join us for this enlightening episode, brimming with expert tips and intriguing insights.