In the wake of rising energy prices, growing environmental awareness and ambitious climate targets, many homeowners are asking themselves whether it is really worth switching to a heat pump when renovating. Old oil and gas heating systems are increasingly seen as obsolete - but is a heat pump really the better solution?
In this article, we compare conventional heating systems with modern heat pumps, analyse the potential savings in energy and heating costs, consider environmental aspects and take a look at the economic viability of the switch.
Classic heating systems vs. heat pumps - a comparison
Traditional heating systems such as gas or oil heating systems are based on the combustion of fossil fuels. They are often cheap to buy, but expensive to run - especially when energy prices fluctuate or rise. Pellet heating systems and district heating are also alternatives, but come with their own challenges.
The heat pump, on the other hand, utilises environmental heat - from the air, ground or groundwater - to heat living spaces and produce hot water. Although the system requires electricity to operate, it generates many times more heating energy from every kilowatt hour of electricity - with an efficiency of over 300 % (COP > 3).
Advantages of the heat pump:
- No fossil fuels required
- Low operating costs (especially when combined with a PV system)
- Climate-friendly and low-emission
- Eligible for funding from KfW and BAFA
- Low maintenance compared to gas/oil heating systems
Potential savings in energy and heating costs
A key advantage of the heat pump is the potential for long-term savings on heating costs. Particularly in times of rising gas and oil prices, the investment pays for itself more quickly than before.
Sample calculation:
An average household with a consumption of 20,000 kWh of heat per year pays around 2,400 € per year. A heat pump with a COP of 3 requires only approx. 6,700 kWh of electricity for the same heating output. Even at an electricity price of 30 cent/kWh, that would be around 2,010 € per year - and with your own solar power, these costs fall even further.
In addition, heat pumps with low flow temperatures work particularly efficiently - ideally in combination with panel heating systems (e.g. underfloor heating).
Environmental effects & CO₂ reduction
A house heated with a heat pump saves several tonnes of CO₂ every year. Compared to an old oil boiler, that's an average of around 3-4 tonnes of CO₂ less - every year. With an electricity mix that is increasingly supplied from renewable sources, the carbon footprint is further improved.
If the heat pump is combined with a photovoltaic system, the carbon footprint can even be reduced to almost zero. This not only makes the heat pump climate-friendly solution, but also an important component of our own energy independence.
Profitability calculation & amortisation
Of course, switching to a heat pump is initially associated with higher investment costs. Depending on the type of heat pump (air, geothermal or water heat) and the structural conditions, the costs are as follows between 15,000 and 35,000 euros including installation.
Subsidies help:
BAFA currently subsidises up to 70 % of eligible costs as part of the Federal subsidy for efficient buildings (BEG) - especially when replacing an old fossil-fuelled heating system.
Amortisation period:
Thanks to savings on operating costs and government subsidies, a heat pump can amortise depending on the initial situation after about 8-12 years - in many cases even earlier, especially if energy prices continue to rise.
It is important to note that the economic efficiency depends heavily on the condition of the building. One Good insulation and suitable radiators or panel heating are crucial for efficient operation.
Conclusion: When is a heat pump worthwhile for a conversion?
A heat pump is particularly worthwhile if the following conditions are met:
- The property is in good condition or is being renovated to improve its energy efficiency.
- Low-temperature heating systems (e.g. underfloor heating) are available or planned.
- Subsidies are available from BAFA/KfW.
- Electricity costs can be reduced with a PV system.
The switch can also be worthwhile in older existing buildings - especially as part of a comprehensive refurbishment programme in which insulation, windows and heating technology are improved together.
Tip for homeowners: Plan holistically
Anyone thinking about installing a heat pump as part of a house remodelling project should not only consider the heating technology, but also the entire energy concept. Even the best heat pump is of little use if the heat escapes through uninsulated walls, outdated windows or leaky doors.
An energy consultant can provide valuable support here - also when applying for funding.
