Thermatek Heating: growing a heat pump business through training and certification

Support from Nesta’s Start at Home pilot scheme and the MCS Certification Fund helped Thermatek Heating gain the necessary skills, experience and certification to install low-carbon heating systems in Scotland. The business now helps homeowners across Edinburgh and the Lothians switch to heat pumps.

About Thermatek Heating

Thermatek Heating launched in 2024. Its founder, Ryan Beattie, had already worked in the heating industry for around 20 years. Based in Scotland, the business mainly upgrades heating systems in homes. Its work includes installing boilers, air source heat pumps and air conditioning.

Ryan started as a sole trader. He has since taken on two new members of staff – an apprentice, Josh, who works alongside John, a senior engineer.

Choosing to focus on clean heating

Ryan was interested in heat pumps before starting Thermatek Heating. He had seen them installed in previous roles but felt that many businesses were still unsure about the technology.

When he started his own business, Ryan wanted to help cut carbon emissions from home heating. He also wanted to help customers understand how heat pumps can work in Scottish homes.

“As soon as I went out on my own, I knew I wanted the business to focus on sustainability, renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions.”

Building skills through recognised training

Ryan’s experience in commercial heating and ventilation gave him a strong understanding of system design, fault finding and technical problem-solving.

He added to these skills when he attained qualifications in low temperature heating system design and a Level 3 heat pump qualification through The Energy Training Academy. The training gave him the confidence to install heat pumps professionally.

Taking part in the Start at Home pilot scheme

It can be difficult for installers to enter the heat pump market. Customers often need to use an MCS-certified installer, especially when applying for funding. Installers can also find it hard to become certified without a completed heat pump installation for an assessor to inspect.

Nesta’s Start at Home pilot scheme helped Ryan install a heat pump in his own home. It covered the cost of his training and part of the installation. This gave him hands-on experience, built his confidence in the technology and provided an installation that could be assessed as part of his MCS certification.

“That workaround with the Nesta project was invaluable. It gave us a way to install our first heat pump, become MCS certified and start installing heat pumps for other people.”

The installation also helped Ryan understand the customer journey first-hand and prepare for future installations.

Achieving MCS certification with support from the MCS Certification Fund

Thermatek Heating used the heat pump installation at Ryan’s home to gain MCS certification. The process included a detailed technical assessment and paperwork. These checks help maintain high standards across the industry.

As a new business, Thermatek Heating also received support from the MCS Certification Fund. The Green Heat Installer Engagement Programme runs the scheme with funding from the Scottish Government. It helps businesses cover the upfront cost of MCS certification, which can be a barrier for those entering the heat pump market.

The support came at an important point for Thermatek Heating. Without it, the business would have struggled to cover the cost of certification in its first year.

Ryan said the support was invaluable. It reduced the remaining cost to an amount the business could manage while building its customer base.

Since gaining MCS certification, Thermatek Heating has been able to work with customers who use the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan. This means the business can help more homeowners and respond to a wider range of heat pump enquiries.

Building customer confidence

Having a heat pump in his own home means Ryan can speak to customers from personal experience. He can clearly explain how installation works, what it may cost to run and what customers need to consider.

Some customers have visited Ryan’s home to see the heat pump before deciding if one is right for them. This helps build trust and shows the quality of Thermatek Heating’s work.

Growing demand for heat pumps

Thermatek Heating has seen enquiries increase across Edinburgh, East Lothian, West Lothian and Fife.

Ryan believes some barriers remain. These include planning rules for listed buildings and difficulties getting some products. He says targeted support for small installers could help build local heat pump skills across Scotland.

Advice for other heating engineers

“[Conventional] heating engineers have more of the necessary skills than they think. Once you understand heat loss, flow rates and low temperature heating, you’re most of the way there.”

Looking ahead

If you are a heating installer, the Green Heat Installer Engagement Programme can help you enter the clean heat market. We offer support at every stage, from finding training and funding to understanding MCS certification and getting practical guidance. To find out more, email [email protected].