Welcome to Episode 8 of Behind The Walls with Pete and Ferg!In this episode, we're joined by the one and only Eric Donovan - former European boxing champion, psychotherapist, counselor, father, husband, and homeowner currently completing his retrofit journey.Eric shares his incredible experience transforming an old, energy-inefficient house (F/G BER rating) into a modern, comfortable forever home for his family. From navigating the vacant homes grant to achieving a A+ BER rating, Eric gives an honest account of the entire process.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction & Welcome Eric Donovan01:12 - Eric's journey to homeownership at 4002:08 - The decision to retrofit vs. buy and move in immediately03:52 - Meeting on Hell Week & the bromance begins05:42 - The Vacant Homes Grant game changer07:42 - Combining grants for maximum benefit09:06 - Getting contractors and starting the work10:14 - External vs. internal wall insulation decision11:24 - The one-stop shop approach with Via Vibed13:14 - Air-to-water heat pumps explained16:14 - Adding solar panels to the system17:10 - The investment and long-term benefits19:13 - How stressful was the process?20:09 - Eric's message about retrofitting22:01 - League of Ireland passion (Drogheda United!)24:00 - Life after boxing & mental health work26:01 - The importance of asking for help28:36 - Looking forward to Christmas in the new home31:09 - Final advice for anyone considering retrofit34:44 - Shout outs & where to find Eric36:40 - The Hell Week story & wrap upWhat we cover:✅ Combining the Vacant Homes Grant with SEAI grants for maximum benefit✅ Why external wall insulation was the right choice for Eric's home✅ The game-changing benefits of air-to-water heat pumps✅ Solar panels and creating a fully energy-efficient home✅ Working with Via Vibed and project management throughout the retrofit✅ The reality of moving from cramped living to a spacious family home✅ Eric's advice for anyone considering a retrofitKey Takeaways:External wall insulation provides better coverage and gives your home a complete faceliftAir-to-water heat pumps deliver consistent temperature and 24/7 hot waterIt's never too early to ask questions about retrofitting your homeThe right time to retrofit is when it suits your lifestyle - don't wait for the "perfect moment"Eric also discusses his work as a psychotherapist at First Ones Therapy and Wellness in Naas, his new role as head coach at Athy Boxing Club, and his passion for League of Ireland football (come on the Drogs!).Thanks to Eric for being so open about his retrofit experience - moving into your forever home just before your 11th anniversary with Laura!Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell for more Behind The Walls content!#Retrofit #HomeRenovation #EnergyEfficiency #BERRating #HeatPump #VacantHomesGrant #SEAIGrants #EricDonovan #BehindTheWalls #IrishConstruction #SustainableLiving #ExternalWallInsulation #SolarPanels

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