How differently efficient heat pumps are

2023-09-27 08:57:00

Four devices performed well, two received a “satisfactory” grade.

“All six models can heat a single-family home,” explained the testers. The difference lies in the power consumption. While the most efficient pump in a moderately insulated 140 square meter house consumes less than 5,000 kilowatt hours per year, the bottom pump uses more than 6,500 kilowatt hours. With an electricity price of 40 cents per kilowatt hour, that makes a difference of around 600 euros per year.

The refrigerant used also played a role in the evaluation. The two heat pumps rated as satisfactory used the potentially climate-damaging agent R32. “If they were to escape, they would have the same greenhouse effect as 2.2 tons of CO2,” the testers found. This is not necessary because there is an alternative available in the form of climate-friendly propane, which has even led to better energy efficiency for two manufacturers.

When it came to volume, four pumps were rated good and two were rated satisfactory. “Before installation, you should check how much distance the pump needs to be from the neighboring property and how it is aligned,” the testers advised. Soundproof hoods and feet to prevent vibrations are also an option.

To the test