BetaTalk - The Renewable Energy and Low Carbon Heating Podcast Weather Compensation: The Missing Link in Efficient Heating? (feat. Ken Bone from Ultimate Renewables Supplies)
Welcome back to the show! In this episode, I'm joined by a good friend and expert in the renewable energy sector, Ken Bone from Ultimate Renewables Supplies. Ken and I dive deep into a topic that's crucial for efficient heating and the future of low-carbon homes: weather compensated heating systems.
One of the key points we explore is the apparent lack of understanding within the installer base regarding weather compensation. It's surprising, considering that condensing boilers – mandated way back in 2005 – operate much more efficiently when paired with this intelligent control strategy.
But is it fair to point the finger solely at installers? We discuss why it's arguably not their fault. Ken and I explore the possibility that industry associations haven't adequately championed and educated on the benefits of weather compensation. This lack of widespread promotion has left many installers unfamiliar with its implementation and advantages.
Our conversation then shifts to the burgeoning heat pump market. Are heat pump manufacturers doing enough to provide user-friendly and effective controls, both for the installer during setup and for the homeowner in their daily use? We examine the current landscape and consider areas for improvement.
I also share a bit about the history of the control industry, where the ideal scenario pushed by control manufacturers for many has been individual room-by-room control. However, as Ken astutely points out, this level of granular control is often unnecessary and can overcomplicate things.
We also touch on a fascinating aspect of the UK heating market: the observation that certain manufacturers are utilizing the same Chinese OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) for their products. This raises questions about differentiation and the potential for shared underlying technology.
A central theme of our discussion revolves around whether these OEMs could produce better weather compensation controls that also incorporate room influence. Can we achieve the best of both worlds – the efficiency of weather compensation fine-tuned by individual room temperature feedback?
Towards the end of the episode, we briefly touch upon the important topics of grid flexibility and demand-side response. We discuss how a better understanding and wider adoption of weather compensation by installers could significantly ease the transition to heat pumps and contribute to a more flexible and efficient energy system.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in the heating industry, from installers and manufacturers to homeowners interested in optimising their heating systems and understanding the future of home comfort. Join Ken and me as we unravel the mysteries and potential of weather compensated heating!
This season is sponsored by Primary Pro, a professional pipe insulation system
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