Heat Pump in 1920s 4 bed detached with coal dust cement - trusted installer?

MarzipanCrumble

I would love a Heat Pump (HP).  But because of coal dust cement my Octopus SM2s don't communicate with Octopus - (Cardiff O2 comms).  I have cavity wall insulation, large often 2 sided radiators and good roof insulation.

But I am wary..... I would go with Octopus but suspect they would not contemplate my house (don't do solar panels on slate roofs).

How do I find a trusted installer who will also advise on improved insulation ie floorboards.

FlorayG

I've just made an appointment with Octopus. If you complete the form on their website someone will call you with further questions and will be able to let you know if it's worth them doing a survey. You pay £200 deposit but if the survey says unsuitable you get it refunded

Reed_Richards

Sorry, this doesn't answer the question but even the mighty Google could not tell me much about what "coal dust cement" was.  Any references seemed to indicate that using coal dust as a cement substitute in concrete was a new and experimental idea, not something done in the 1920s.  I can only think that the problem is that the coal dust makes the concrete too conducting and so blocks mobile phone signals?

Is there any harm in seeking a quote from Octopus?    You won't know if they'll say no until you ask.

Nick_Dr1

You can get mobile phone signal boosters for all networks. Suggest you investigate your options on improving your signal, then communicating with the smart meter won't be a problem any more. You'll have to factor this in to the overall cost as I don't think Octopus will pay but it won't be a deal breaker. You'll get better mobile signal as a side effect for all uses as well!

FreeBear

The materials used in the construction of the property will have no affect on the suitability towards a heat pump. If Octopus covers your area, they should be able to give you a quote.

Meter comms problems are only an issue if you want to switch to a ToU tariff. If the walls are preventing the signal from the smart meter getting out, there are ways round the problem - An external aerial is one option.