
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

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

Building Regulations Part L: Your ultimate guide to the new changes
By Paul Hymers last updated
Changes to Building Regulations Part L take effect from 15 June - here’s how they could impact self builders and extenders

Makita DTM51Z 18V cordless multi tool review
By David Hilton last updated
We test the Makita DTM51Z 18V cordless multi tool to see what it can do and find out why it's one of the best products on the market

Ryobi HP RRS18X-0 cordless 18V brushless reciprocating saw review
By David Hilton last updated
We test the Ryobi HP RRS18X-0 cordless 18V brushless reciprocating saw to see how suitable it is for your build project

Is Solar PV Right for Your Home? All Your Questions Answered
By David Hilton last updated
Solar PV panels use the sunlight to generate electricity. Find out how they work, what they cost and whether they're right for your home, in our ultimate guide

A step-by-step guide to installing solar panels
By David Hilton last updated
Our energy expert advises on installing solar panels, including how to, costs and timescales — plus a step-by-step guide to the process

Solar panels: An expert guide to the pros and cons
By David Hilton last updated
Should you invest in solar panels or are they not worth it? Find out the types available, how much they will cost and what extras to consider

What’s it like living with solar PV panels?
By David Hilton published
Energy expert David Hilton reveals his experience installing and using solar PV in his own home and reveals how he maximises the energy it generates

Solar panels for sheds and other garden buildings, are they worth it?
By Amy Reeves published
Discover what you need to know about installing solar panels for sheds, garden offices and small cabins — including size, watts and DIY kits

Underfloor heating with combi boilers: Pros, cons and your questions answered
By David Hilton published
While not ideal, it is possible to install underfloor heating with a combi boiler. Our expert explains what you need to know when combining the two in your home

Underfloor heating with heat pumps: How to design your system for maximum efficiency
By David Hilton last updated
When installing a heat pump, your underfloor heating system can incorporate specific design features to operate at its maximum efficiency. We explain all

What is the cost of solar panels? What you need to know before investing
By David Hilton published
Before investing in green energy, find out the cost of solar panels with our expert guide, including hidden extras and running costs

Solar batteries: Your questions answered
By David Hilton last updated
Solar batteries are a helpful add-on to a solar panel set-up, helping you store the electricity your home generates. Here's what you need to know
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