James Clark | Elite Services Group

How does a gas engineer become a heat pump specialist?

In this episode of the Energy Unwrapped podcast, Mick Wall speaks with James Clark of Elite Services Group about his journey from gas engineering into heat pumps and renewable heating.

James explains how his approach to heat pump design and installation developed, the impact of Heat Geek training, and why good installers need to keep learning as the industry changes. We also discuss communication, customer handover, aftercare and the importance of learning from mistakes.

The conversation covers the realities of building and running a renewable heating business, including the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, recruitment, changing technology and the challenge of delivering quality heat pump installations at scale.

James also shares his experience of solar, home batteries, air conditioning and smart electricity tariffs — and explains why the role of a heating installer is increasingly becoming that of a whole-home energy adviser.

In this episode:

James’s journey from gas engineer to heat pump specialist

What makes a good heat pump installer

Heat pump design, training and continuous learning

Heat-loss surveys, installation and customer handover

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme and industry challenges

Running a heat pump and renewable heating business

Solar, batteries and air conditioning

Smart tariffs and the future of home energy

🔥 James and Elite Services Group are part of my Trusted Heat Pump Installer directory

👉 https://www.trustedheatpumpinstallers.co.uk/

📊 Real-world UK energy data, analysis and tools:

👉 https://energy-stats.uk

⚡ Switch to Octopus Energy (we both get £50):

👉 https://mickwall.uk/octopus

🎙️ Energy Unwrapped Podcast:

👉 https://energy-stats.uk/energy-unwrapped-podcast/