In times of rising energy prices and to protect our climate, in the selection of your heating system you need to place priority especially on efficiency and on the use of clean fuels, including solar energy, biomass and heat pumps.

However, even the best heating system cannot work efficiently if a building is not properly insulated. Therefore, especially for renovation projects, first insulate the building shell and then improve the heating system. The better you succeed with energy-efficient construction, the better is the classification of your house in the Energy Performance Certificate and the more subsidy you can receive for your heating.

Heat production (see also section Heat production)

• From an ecological perspective, it is best to connect to a district heating network, biomass heating or heat pumps.
• On use of fossil fuels, definitely use HHV rather than LHV technology; this brings higher efficiency and reduces emissions and fuel consumption.
• Do not over-dimension the power of your furnace (heating load computation).
• Caution: When you replace your Heat production, consider the condition and structure of your chimney.
• Old chimneys are in danger of sooting and moisture due to condensation at low exhaust temperatures.

Heat distribution (also see Heat distribution system)

• Insulate pipelines well so that heat is not lost where it is not needed.
• Recommendation: Dual pipe systems for radiators ensure uniform heat distribution and better regulation.
• Over-dimensioned circulation pumps consume too much electricity.
• Electronically controlled circulation pumps avoid unnecessary water transport and reduce operating expenses.

Controls (also see Proper controls)

• Optimal temperature regulation lets you set the required room temperature at any time.
• Ideal: individual regulation for each room
• For existing systems, professionally retrofit thermostat valves (preferably preset valves)
• Temperature reduction at night helps to save energy.
• Install a room thermostat in each room that has representative temperatures for the house. (If you use a wood stove in such a room, then the room temperature influence of the thermostat must be adjustable.)