EP226 Three Miracles and a Heat Pump: Fixing Retrofit Policy from the Ground Up with Abhi Katamneni & Nate Adams (June 2025)

Building HVAC Science

In this insightful episode, Bill and Eric are joined by Abhi Katamneni from Efficiency Canada and Nate Adams, also known as the House Whisperer, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of home performance, policy, and how HVAC contractors can play a central role in the electrification and decarbonization of housing.

Abhi shares lessons from his ride-alongs with contractors across North America, emphasizing how real-world experience shapes policy that actually works. Nate dives into his shift toward consumer education and the systemic problems he’s observed in program design and incentives. Together, they unpack how well-meaning policies can backfire when they disrupt the natural rhythm of contracting businesses—highlighting the urgent need for smarter, more contractor-centric approaches.

They discuss “boundary spanners,” the unintended consequences of top-down mandates, and why the HVAC service truck is ground zero for climate solutions. Both guests call for immersion, experimentation, and communities of practice to move from boutique success stories to scalable change.

Some quotes from the Episode:

“The brain can’t absorb what your butt can’t endure.” – Abhi

“If you’re not building something shovel-ready for contractors, what are you even doing?” – Abhi

“A heat pump isn’t just green—it’s better. More comfort, less noise, fewer regrets.” – Nate

Nate’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natethehousewhisperer/

Abhi’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akantamn/

Boundary Spanners podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1OunercMNOjZ3poROcI5Z4

Nate’s website where you get free downloads or the book: https://www.natethehousewhisperer.com/

ACEEE: https://www.aceee.org/

Efficiency Canada: https://www.efficiencycanada.org/

This episode was recorded in June 2025.