There are different types of heat pumps, but they all work according to the same principle: ambient warmth is used to heat a fluid. However, since the temperature level is not yet sufficient to heat effectively, the fluid is compressed in a evaporator with the help of electricity.

During compression, the fluid heats up and eventually evaporates. The resulting energy is then made available for heating and hot water via a heat exchanger. During the energy transfer to the heat distribution system, the fluid condenses again. In addition, the pressure is reduced by an expansion valve. The coolant is now available again to absorb ambient energy.

It is important to get expert advice and a efficiency calculation for your home before making the purchase of a heat pump.

For new buildings, heat pumps are often the first choice when it comes to heating systems. Nowadays, there are efficient solutions for every existing building that do not neccecarily require surface heating or a complete retrofit. In general, it is important to check that the heat pump system consumes little electricity, does not fail in the case of extreme weather conditions, can supply high temperatures of up to 60 °C and is compatible with other systems.

To ensure an efficient use of the heat pump, the electricity required should come from renewable energy sources. The combination with a photovoltaic system and an energy storage is particularly beneficial. It increases the profitability of the solar energy system by raising self-consumption – an excellent synergy for your electricity and heating needs!

Two important key figures determine the efficiency of a heat pump: the annual coefficient of performance (SCOP) and the coefficient of performance (COP). COP stands for the ratio of useful heat generated to electricity consumption at a given point in time. SCOP, on the other hand, looks at this ratio calculated over a year. An SCOP of 4, for example, means that over the year an average of 4 kwh of heat was generated from 1 kWh of electricity.

In principle, the following applies to these indicators: the higher, the more efficient. The expected ratios are calculated by expert advisors specifically for your case.

You can apply for subsidies on heat pumps from the Federal Office of Economic Affairs and Export Control before purchasing.