
David Hilton
David is a renewables and ventilation installer, with over 35 years experience, and is a long-standing contributor to Homebuilding and Renovating magazine. He is a member of the Gas Safe Register, has a Masters degree in Sustainable Architecture, and is an authority in sustainable building and energy efficiency, with extensive knowledge in building fabrics, heat recovery ventilation, renewables, and also conventional heating systems. He is also a speaker at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show.
Passionate about healthy, efficient homes, he is director of Heat and Energy Ltd. He works with architects, builders, self builders and renovators, and designs and project manages the installation of ventilation and heating systems to achieve the most energy efficient and cost effective outcome for every home.
Latest articles by David Hilton

High vs medium vs low temperature air source heat pumps: What's the difference and how to choose between them
By David Hilton published
We take a look at the different air source heat pump temperature types so you can choose the right one for your home

Mitsubishi Ecodan 11.2kw R410a monobloc heat pump review
By David Hilton published
"5 years on and it's still working well." David Hilton reviews his Mitsubishi Ecodan 11.2kw R410a monobloc heat pump and explains what's involved when you have one installed and how his has performed

How does a portable air conditioning unit work?
By David Hilton published
Wondering how does a portable air conditioning unit work? Find out the answer as well as the differences between portable and fixed air conditioning units

Our expert takes an honest look at the pros and cons of air source heat pumps
By David Hilton published
Air source heat pumps are now one of the leading low-carbon heating choices for homes. Our expert David Hilton guides you through everything you need to know about them

What is Coefficient of Performance (CoP)? Renewables expert explains this key heat pump calculation
By David Hilton published
The efficiency of heat pumps is rated by their Coefficient of Performance (CoP). But how is it calculated and at what point is it considered to be under-performing?

Passivhaus ventilation: What are my options and why do I need it?
By David Hilton published
Passivhaus ventilation requirements can seem confusing at first. Renewables expert David Hilton is here to explain everything you need to know if this is a building standard you are aiming to achieve

What is an air to water heat pump and would you benefit from installing one?
By David Hilton published
We take a look at what is an air to water heat pump, how it's different from other heat pumps and if it's right for your self-build or renovation

Will insulating a loft save you money? — an energy expert gives his verdict
By David Hilton published
Insulating a loft is often the first job that comes to the minds of homeowners keen to cut their energy bills and increase their home's comfort levels. Here, David Hilton looks at how effective it really is

What is a monobloc heat pump and what are their pros and cons?
By David Hilton published
Just what is a monobloc heat pump and why might you consider installing one in your home? Here, expert David Hilton explains what their advantages are, as well as their limitations

Is using solar panels and heat pumps together a good idea?
By David Hilton published
Solar panels and heat pumps can save homeowners money as well as saving energy — our guide explains exactly what you need to know if you are considering using them together

Why I wish I'd installed my Kinetico water softener years ago
By David Hilton published
After enduring hard water for years, David Hilton decided to test drive a Kinetico water softener. Here's what he has to say about the impressive results

Do MVHR and underfloor heating make a home more efficient? Our expert explains
By David Hilton published
Discover how the combination of MVHR and underfloor heating creates a comfortable living environment — and whether it'll ultimately be more energy efficient

What is an exhaust air heat pump and how can it reduce your heating bills?
By David Hilton published
Energy expert David Hilton explains what is an exhaust air heat pump and how can it cut your carbon emissions and reduce your heating bill by reusing 'waste air' in your home

Makita DCW180Z 18v cooler and warmer box review
By David Hilton published
Renewables and ventilation installer David Hilton puts the Makita DCW180Z 18v cooler and warmer box to the test to discover what it's like to use and whether you should buy one

Why does my water pressure keep dropping after retrofitting a heat pump?
By David Hilton published
If you've replaced your boiler with an air source heat pump, you may have noticed a drop in water pressure when running hot taps and showers. Heat pump expert David Hilton explains why — and the simple fix to this problem

Solar panel pigeon proofing — how to stop bird poo and nests damaging your array
By David Hilton published
Don't let bird droppings negatively impact the performance of your solar panels. Here's how to carry out solar panel pigeon proofing

How I retrofitted wet underfloor heating in my bungalow — without digging up the floor
By David Hilton published
Our heating expert David Hilton talks through how he installed wet underfloor heating during the renovation of his 1980s semi-detached bungalow, including the system he used to minimise loss in ceiling height

Do heat pumps work in cold weather? Plus, their efficiency in winter explained
By David Hilton published
How do heat pumps perform when temperatures fall? Renewables expert David Hilton explains the impact of cold weather on heat pumps and why they are a good choice for the British climate

Do air source heat pumps work with standard radiators? Your questions answered
By David Hilton published
Do you need new radiators when installing an air source heat pump or will old or existing radiators suffice? Find out with our expert guide

How many solar panels do I need? Could you really live off-grid on just solar power?
By David Hilton published
Finding out 'how many solar panels do I need' is a great first step into the world of renewable energy. Our expert answers your questions

Air source heat pump positioning: What to consider and how to get it right
By David Hilton published
Air source heat pump positioning is a key consideration when installing this renewable tech at your home. Here's what you need to consider in five steps

I installed MVHR and it has completely stopped condensation in my home
By David Hilton published
Energy expert David Hilton installed mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) into his existing home three years ago, and he says it was one of the best decisions he ever made

What is it really like to live with a heat pump?
By David Hilton last updated
Energy expert David Hilton installed an air source heat pump three years ago, a decision which gives him confidence the technology could suit most UK homes
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