Heat pumps are considered a climate-friendly alternative to conventional heating systems. Is the investment really worthwhile for every building? The answer depends on several factors. In this article, you can find out who a heat pump is suitable for and when it is worthwhile to install it.

Who is a heat pump worthwhile for?

A heat pump is worthwhile for owners who want to heat efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way. Fossil fuels are not only harmful to the environment, but are also subject to strong price fluctuations and are becoming increasingly expensive as a result of the rising CO₂ tax. A heat pump is particularly advantageous in well-insulated buildings with panel heating or suitable radiators. It is now standard in new buildings, but it also works economically in renovated existing buildings — this is proven by a Fraunhofer ISE study. It is particularly worthwhile when replacing heating systems, as up to 70% of costs are funded.

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Which requirements must be met?

For a heat pump to work efficiently, certain conditions must be met. Building insulation, the heat distribution system and the heat source are decisive.

• Good thermal insulation: Low heat losses improve efficiency and reduce heating costs.
• Low flow temperature: Temperatures of 30 to 35 °C but a maximum of 55 °C are optimal, as higher values increase power consumption and impair profitability.
• Suitable heat distribution system: Panel heating systems such as floor, wall or ceiling heating systems are ideal. Large-sized low-temperature radiators are also suitable.
• Adequate heating capacity: The heat pump must be sized to match the heating load of the building.
• Suitable heat source: While air heat pumps are easy and flexible to install, geothermal or groundwater heat pumps require more land space and usually even permits.
• Cheap electricity tariff: Heat pump power and a PV system reduce operating costs.

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What options are there?

The following types of heat pumps are available, which differ in terms of their heat source and mode of operation:

• air to water heat pump: Uses the ambient air to generate heat and transfers the heat to the heating system via water.
• brine water heat pump: Extracts heat from the ground via geothermal collectors or geothermal probes and transfers it to a water-carrying heating system.
• water to water heat pump: Extracting heat from groundwater and using it for heating.
• air-to-air heat pump: Uses outdoor air as a heat source and transfers the heat directly to indoor spaces via a ventilation system.
• hybrid heat pump: Combines a heat pump with another heat source, usually a gas heater.

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The following is an overview of the options:

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From which energy standard is a heat pump worthwhile?

A heat pump is worthwhile from energy efficiency class E or better. Buildings with good insulation and low heat requirements enable efficient operation and low heating costs.

New buildings with classes A+, A, B and C are ideal as they have low heat losses. In buildings with poor insulation, particularly from class F onwards, a heat pump often works inefficiently. This requires additional measures, such as better insulation or a hybrid solution.

Whether a heat pump is worthwhile for your building can a energy consulting clarify. You will receive a detailed assessment and recommendations for optimising your heating system.

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When is a heat pump worthwhile in an old building?

A heat pump can also work efficiently in old buildings. According to Fraunhofer ISE, buildings with heating energy consumption of less than 150 kWh per square meter per year are generally suitable. If consumption is higher, an energy-efficient renovation is necessary.

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Is a heat pump worthwhile for you?

Whether a heat pump is worthwhile depends primarily on the insulation of your house and the heating system. In well-insulated buildings, it works efficiently and saves heating costs in the long term. It is also useful in many old buildings, as long as the energy consumption is below 150 kWh per square meter. Operation is even possible without underfloor heating.

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