One of the basic truths regarding energy conversion is that no thermodynamic cycle can be devised that is more efficient than a Carnot cycle operating between the same temperature limits. The efficiency of the Stirling cycle (patented by Rev. Robert Stirling in 1816) can approach that of the Carnot cycle and yet has not had the commercial success of the more familiar Otto and Diesel cycles used in the automotive industry. Recent developments by a company called Disenco may change all that. A Stirling engine is at the heart of their combined heat and power (CHP) domestic unit, which could change the way that people use energy in their home. In this article, the author updates an experiment reported more than two decades ago on a Stirling engine manufactured by Cussons Technology Ltd. (Contains 4 figures.)