Ready to design heat pump systems that really work? Grab our free manual S cold-climate heat pump selection tool—the same systematic approach that helps contractors get sizing right the first time: https://bit.ly/heatpump-manual-s-free-tool

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Shawn LeMons has worn nearly every hat in the world of building performance and HVAC. From growing up in off-grid homes to earning top building science certifications and co-owning a heat pump contracting business, his journey is full of lessons for contractors.

In this episode, Shawn joins hosts Ed Smith and Eric Fitz to talk about:

• Why Manual J is the best wrong tool we have
• Designing systems at 11,000 feet and the balance of math + judgement
• How referrals and diligence outcompete paid marketing
• The importance of tradespeople’s dignity, mental health, and sustainable growth

Whether you’re scaling a contracting business or sharpening your design process, this conversation offers both practical strategies and grounded wisdom.

Timestamps:

[00:00] - Introduction

[02:23] - Early life lessons in unique homes

[15:12] - Why focus on heat pumps

[19:21] - Incentives, early adopters, and Colorado’s growing demand

[28:23] - A homeowner-first sales and design process

[36:38] - Looking ahead: shop ownership, recycling, and team wellbeing

[39:12] - Mental health in the trades and valuing hands-on genius

[43:53] - Final advice: stay curious, stay informed, stay human

Follow Shawn LeMons:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnlemons/ 

Follow:  

• Website: https://mtnwesthp.com 

Follow the Hosts:

• Ed Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-smith-5aa8716
• Eric Fitz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ehfitz/
• Amply Energy Website: https://www.amply.energy/
• Amply Energy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amplyenergy
• Amply Energy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amplyenergy
• Amply Energy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amply_energy/