Heat Pumps – Everything You Need to Know

Heat Pumps – Everything You Need to Know

Costs, Efficiency, Benefits & What to Choose

Heat pumps are revolutionizing how we heat and cool our homes. By capturing free energy from the environment – from air, ground, or water – heat pumps can deliver up to 80% of heating energy by using only 20% electricity. They are efficient, eco-friendly, and help protect you from rising energy costs. At KRONOTERM, we combine over 50 years of European innovation with smart technology and award-winning design to deliver the most advanced heat pumps for homes and businesses.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

Heat Pumps Extract Heat Energy From the Environment

Heat Pumps Extract Heat Energy From the Environment

Heat pumps are one of the smartest and most efficient ways to heat and cool buildings today. Instead of generating heat by burning fuel, a heat pump moves heat from one place to another — using renewable energy available in the air, the ground, or water.

You can think of a heat pump like a reverse refrigerator:

  • A refrigerator removes heat from the inside and pushes it outside, keeping food cold.

  • A heat pump captures heat from the outside (even in the winter) and pushes it inside to warm your home. And in the summer, the system can reverse the process to cool your home, replacing an air conditioner.

The Heat Pump Cycle – Step by Step

The Heat Pump Cycle – Step by Step

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  • Heat Capture (Evaporation):
    The heat pump absorbs low-temperature heat from the environment (air, ground, or water) using a special fluid called refrigerant.

  • Heat Compression (Compression):
    A compressor squeezes the refrigerant, increasing its temperature significantly — just like your hands get warm when you rub them together.

  • Heat Transfer (Condensation):
    The hot refrigerant releases its heat into your home’s heating system (radiators, underfloor heating, or domestic hot water).

  • Pressure Reduction (Expansion):
    After releasing heat, the refrigerant cools down and the cycle begins again.

Low Electricity Use for High Heating Putput

Low Electricity Use for High Heating Putput

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Imagine using just 1 kWh of electricity — about the same as running a hair dryer for half an hour. Thanks to KRONOTERM’s exceptional efficiency (SCOP of 5.20 or higher), that small amount of electricity can produce over 5.2 kWh of heating energy.

This is enough to keep a well-insulated 100 m² home warm for 1 to 3 hours, depending on outdoor temperatures — while using only a fraction of the energy that traditional heating systems would consume.

This is the power of a modern heat pump: small input, massive renewable output.

How Do Heat Pumps Capture Heat in Freezing Weather?

How Do Heat Pumps Capture Heat in Freezing Weather?

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Even when the air feels cold to us, it still contains plenty of thermal energy. A heat pump uses a special refrigerant that can evaporate at extremely low temperatures — often below -30°C.

This means even at -20°C, a heat pump can absorb energy from the environment, compress it, and deliver warm, comfortable heating inside your home.

Heat Pumps Extract Heat Energy From the Environment
The Heat Pump Cycle – Step by Step
Low Electricity Use for High Heating Putput
How Do Heat Pumps Capture Heat in Freezing Weather?

Overview of Heat Pump Types

Benefits of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are not just a trend — they are a smart investment in your comfort, savings, and the future of the planet. Here’s why more and more homeowners and businesses are switching to heat pumps:

Reduction in Heating Costs Due to High Efficiency – Up to 80% Lower Heating Costs

Heat pumps don’t generate heat — they move it. That’s why they’re 3 to 5 times more efficient than oil or gas boilers. With a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) of up to 5.20 for air-to-water and 8.48 for water-to-water systems, KRONOTERM heat pumps are among the most efficient in Europe.

For every 1 kWh of electricity, you get up to 8.48 kWh of heat — drastically reducing your monthly energy bills.

Up to 70% Lower CO₂ Emissions – contributes to climate protection

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By using renewable energy from the air, ground, or water, heat pumps produce zero on-site emissions and significantly reduce carbon output — up to 70% less CO₂ than fossil fuel heating.

  • Compared to an oil or gas boiler, a heat pump can reduce your home’s CO₂ emissions by up to 60–70%.
  • Switching to a KRONOTERM heat pump could save up to 3–5 tons of CO₂ per year for an average single-family home.

Over 10 years, that’s roughly the same positive climate impact as planting over 250 trees.

Switching to a heat pump is one of the most effective steps homeowners can take toward climate-neutral living.

Independence from Fossil Fuels

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Oil and gas prices are rising — and their supply can be unstable.
A heat pump lets you break free from fossil fuel dependence and future-proofs your home against energy market fluctuations.

  • Heating with a heat pump means you’re using renewable energy (air, ground, or water) that’s free and abundant.
  • Pairing your heat pump with a solar power system can make you even more independent, using your own electricity to power your heating.

One System for Heating and Cooling

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Modern heat pumps can do more than just heat. All KRONOTERM heat pumps can reverse the cycle in summer, acting like a highly efficient air conditioner. With passive or active cooling modes, you can enjoy year-round temperature control — with a single, integrated system.

  • Enjoy pleasant indoor temperatures all year round — without the need for a separate cooling system.
  • This feature is ideal for new builds and renovations where both heating and cooling comfort are important.

Lower Maintenance Effort than Traditional Heating Systems and Long Lifespan

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Heat pumps are designed for long-term reliability and minimal maintenance — and KRONOTERM heat pumps take this even further with smart engineering and remote monitoring.

Unlike gas or oil boilers, which need frequent inspections, burner cleaning, and safety checks, a heat pump requires only one simple annual service. Maintenance usually includes cleaning air filters, checking pressure, and updating software — often possible remotely via CLOUD.KRONOTERM.

KRONOTERM units are developed and produced in Europe using high-quality components for lifespans of 20–30+ years, with ground systems (boreholes or collectors) lasting over 50 years. For comparison, traditional boilers often need replacing after just 12–15 years.

Over their lifetime, KRONOTERM heat pumps deliver significant savings — both in energy costs and maintenance expenses.
A typical household can save €20,000–30,000 or more over 20 years compared to oil or gas heating, making a heat pump not just a sustainable choice, but a smart financial investment too.

Smart, Silent & Seamlessly Integrated

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KRONOTERM systems are:

  • Ultra-silent (from 14 dB) — ideal for urban areas and compact homes, including apartments

  • Smart Grid Ready and controllable via our CLOUD.KRONOTERM app

  • Designed to work with radiators, underfloor heating, and solar PV systems

Easy to monitor, program, and optimize — even remotely.

Eligible for Subsidies Across Europe

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Most European countries — including Germany, France, Austria, and Slovenia — offer generous grants, rebates, or tax incentives for heat pump installations. These can cover 30–70% of upfront costs. KRONOTERM helps you find and apply for available subsidies — making your investment even smarter.

Current Subsidies Overview (2025)

  • Germany: Up to 70% of investment costs covered via the BEG program.

  • Austria: Grants up to 50% for fossil fuel replacement through the Sanierungsoffensive.

  • Switzerland: Regional grants (e.g., Zurich up to CHF 18,000).

  • France: Up to €10,000 support through MaPrimeRénov’.

  • Italy: Up to 65% reimbursement via the Conto Termico.

  • Netherlands: Fixed subsidies from €2,400 to €5,100 depending on the system.

  • Belgium: Regional programs covering up to 40% of installation costs.

  • Slovenia: New €20 million program and Eko sklad grants for residential and commercial heat pumps.

  • Nordic Countries: Tax deductions and green loans to support renewable heating.

Save Space with Compact Heat Pumps

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Unlike oil or gas boilers with large tanks and storage rooms, modern heat pumps are compact and space-saving. Our indoor units take up only 0.5 m² of floor space – less than a small cupboard – and can be installed indoors or outdoors, even where space is limited. This makes them ideal for new low-energy houses as well as renovations of older homes where every square meter counts.

How Much Can You Save with a Heat Pump?

You can save up to 80% on heating costs by switching from oil or gas to a high-efficiency heat pump like KRONOTERM’s ADAPT, VERSI or ETERA. With real SCOP values up to 8.48 and long-term support, most users see a full return on investment in under 6 to 9 years — plus up to 70% lower CO₂ emissions.

This table compares KRONOTERM air-to-water and geothermal heat pumps with oil, gas, and pellet heating systems — showing real-life savings, return on investment, and carbon emissions. Based on a typical European home (12,000 kWh/year), we used 2025 average EU energy prices, certified SCOP values, and standard CO₂ factors.

See how much you can save with one of the most efficient and quiet heat pumps in Europe — and how quickly your investment can pay off.

Heat Pump Savings vs. Oil Boiler Savings vs. Gas Boiler Savings vs. Pellet Stove Avg. CO2 Savings Avg. ROI (years)
KRONOTERM ADAPT 68% 52% 18% 53% 5.7
KRONOTERM ETERA (water/water) 80% 70% 50% 71% 8.9

Subsidies and Financial Support

Switching to a heat pump is more affordable thanks to generous government grants and subsidies across the UK and Ireland. Programs like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and SEAI Heat Pump Grant help homeowners cover installation costs and reduce energy bills.

How to get financial support for a heat pump?

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About the schemes
Government programs such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (UK) and the SEAI Heat Pump Grant (Ireland) provide financial aid for switching to renewable heating. Homeowners can receive up to £7,500 in the UK and €6,500 in Ireland toward the installation of a heat pump.
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Who can apply?
Homeowners who replace old oil, gas, or coal boilers can apply, as long as the property meets the minimum insulation requirements. Support is also available for both new builds and energy-efficient renovations.
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What costs are covered?
Support usually includes the purchase and installation of a heat pump, integration into the heating system, and professional installation costs.
Find the Right KRONOTERM Solution for Your Home

Heat Pump Advisor

Choosing the right heat pump doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re planning a new home or replacing an old system, this advisor helps you understand your needs, explore your options, and discover the most efficient solution for your space.

Areas of Use and Applications

Usable in new buildings and energy-efficient renovations

Usable in new buildings and energy-efficient renovations

  • New build: You likely have low-temperature floor heating and modern insulation. KRONOTERM’s ADAPT or ETERA air-to-water systems are ideal for optimal efficiency and aesthetics.

  • Renovation: No problem. KRONOTERM heat pumps work with radiators, high-temperature needs, and existing hydraulic systems.

Suitable for single-family homes, apartment buildings & commercial properties

Suitable for single-family homes, apartment buildings & commercial properties

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  • Single-family: Compact, quiet solutions like ADAPT and VERSI offer enough capacity with minimal space.

  • Multi-family or commercial buildings: Go modular with ADAPT MAX – scalable up to 140 kW.

Do you want cooling in summer too?

Do you want cooling in summer too?

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Most KRONOTERM heat pumps offer passive or active cooling — perfect for year-round comfort.

Works with underfloor heating, buffer storage, and PV systems

Works with underfloor heating, buffer storage, and PV systems

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KRONOTERM heat pumps are designed to integrate seamlessly with a variety of heating and energy systems. Their low-temperature operation makes them an excellent match for underfloor heating, delivering consistent warmth and comfort while using less energy. Adding a buffer storage tank helps optimize performance, reduce wear on components, and improve overall efficiency. When combined with a photovoltaic (PV) system, heat pumps can run on self-generated solar electricity, lowering energy costs and increasing energy independence. This smart compatibility ensures maximum efficiency, sustainability, and long-term savings for residential and commercial buildings alike.

Usable in new buildings and energy-efficient renovations
Suitable for single-family homes, apartment buildings & commercial properties
Do you want cooling in summer too?
Works with underfloor heating, buffer storage, and PV systems

Planning and Installation

Site Analysis & Proper Sizing by Professionals

Site Analysis & Proper Sizing by Professionals

Every successful heat pump installation begins with a detailed site analysis and accurate system sizing. Professional planning ensures the heat pump is matched to the building’s heating and cooling demands, which maximizes efficiency, extends system lifespan, and prevents unnecessary energy costs.

Integration into Existing Systems

Integration into Existing Systems

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Modern heat pumps can often be integrated into existing heating systems, making them suitable for both renovations and new constructions. Whether you use underfloor heating, radiators, or buffer storage, the system can be adapted with minimal structural changes, providing flexibility and cost savings.

Which energy source is best for you — air, ground, or water?

Which energy source is best for you — air, ground, or water?

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  • Air: Easiest to install, efficient year-round (SCOP 5.20+). No drilling required.

  • Ground (brine): High seasonal efficiency. Ideal for new builds with enough land for ground collectors.

  • Water: Ultra-high efficiency (SCOP up to 8.48), but groundwater access is needed.

 

Can I install a heat pump in a small space?

Can I install a heat pump in a small space?

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  • Yes. Our VERSI line is designed for compact footprints, balconies, and tight spaces. 
  • Indoor/outdoor combinations are available with low noise and flexible pipe runs. 

 

Site Analysis & Proper Sizing by Professionals
Integration into Existing Systems
Which energy source is best for you — air, ground, or water?
Can I install a heat pump in a small space?

Energy Use & Sizing

How much heating energy does my home need?

How much heating energy does my home need?

  • A well-insulated 120 m² home needs ~8,000–10,000 kWh per year. 
  • Poorly insulated homes may need 12,000–16,000 kWh or more. 
How much hot water does a household use?

How much hot water does a household use?

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On average: 

  • 1 person: 30–50 liters/day 
  • 4-person home: 120–200 liters/day 
Can I power my heat pump with solar electricity?

Can I power my heat pump with solar electricity?

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Yes. KRONOTERM heat pumps work perfectly with solar PV systems. 

How much heating energy does my home need?
How much hot water does a household use?
Can I power my heat pump with solar electricity?
Key benefits of combining heat pumps with PV

Heat Pumps and PV – The Perfect Match

Combining a heat pump with a photovoltaic (PV) system is one of the smartest ways to maximize renewable energy use at home. Together, they create an efficient, sustainable solution that reduces costs and increases independence from the grid.

Increases self-consumption of solar energy

Optimizes operating costs

Contributes to energy independence

Maintenance and Lifespan of Heat Pumps

Heat Pumps – Everything You Need to Know

Heat pumps from KRONOTERM require just one yearly check to keep them in top condition, making them extremely low-maintenance compared to traditional heating systems. With proper care, their lifespan exceeds 20 years, and some of our first-installed units have been running reliably for over 40 years.


Geothermal systems, such as our ETERA modular heat pump, can last even longer. Thanks to their modular design, individual modules can be replaced or upgraded without changing the entire system, ensuring maximum longevity, efficiency, and flexibility.

Heat Pumps – Everything You Need to Know
The European Expert in Heat Pump Innovation

Why Choose KRONOTERM?

When it comes to choosing a heat pump, performance, reliability, and support matter. At KRONOTERM, we combine over 35 years of engineering excellence, award-winning design, and unmatched service to bring you one of the most advanced heat pump ranges in Europe. From single-family homes to commercial buildings, over 110.000 customers trust KRONOTERM for quiet, efficient, and future-ready heating and cooling.

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European Quality & Innovation

All KRONOTERM heat pumps are developed and manufactured in-house, in the heart of Europe. Our team combines R&D, testing, and production under one roof to deliver cutting-edge performance and long-term reliability.

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Ultra-Efficient & Whisper-Quiet

KRONOTERM heat pumps deliver exceptional energy savings with SCOP values up to 8.48, making them among the most efficient in Europe. Even at peak performance, they remain ultra-quiet, with sound levels from just 14 dB — ideal for urban homes, balconies, and noise-sensitive areas.

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Flexible for Any Building

From new low-energy homes to complex renovations, our heat pumps adapt to your needs – with models for high-temperature radiators, underfloor heating, and modular large-scale projects.

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Award-Winning Design That Fits Beautifully

KRONOTERM heat pumps are crafted to blend seamlessly with any architectural style — from sleek, modern facades to refined, minimalist interiors. The award-winning ADAPT model, honored with the Archiproducts Design Award, proves that advanced technology can also be beautifully designed.

Our Heat Pump Range

Feature Comparison

Heat Pump vs Traditional Heating Systems

When choosing between a heat pump, gas boiler, oil boiler, or pellet stove, it’s important to compare not just heating costs — but also functions, environmental impact, and long-term convenience.

This table shows how KRONOTERM heat pumps outperform traditional heating systems in key areas like smart control, and CO₂ reduction — all while offering cooling in summer and eligibility for EU heating subsidies.

System Low CO₂ Emissions Compatible with Solar PV Systems No Fuel Storage or Deliveries Smart App Control Cooling in Summer No On-Site Combustion
KRONOTERM Heat Pumps
Gas Boiler
Oil Boiler
Pellet Stove

Heat Your Home and Domestic Hot Water with One Efficient Heat Pump

Why Heat Domestic Hot Water with a Heat Pump?

Why Heat Domestic Hot Water with a Heat Pump?

  • Energy Efficiency: Reduce DHW energy consumption by up to 75% compared to traditional electric water heaters.

  • Smart Controls: Manage your DHW settings remotely via the CLOUD.KRONOTERM app, allowing for scheduling, temperature adjustments, and energy monitoring.

  • Compact Design: Indoor units occupy minimal space (as little as 0.5 m²), making them suitable for various home sizes.

  • Safety Features: Built-in anti-Legionella programs ensure water hygiene by periodically heating water above 60°C.

Why Heat Domestic Hot Water with a Heat Pump?

Frequently Asked Questions

General

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How does a heat pump work?

A heat pump extracts heat from air, ground, or water and transfers it indoors using a refrigeration cycle. It provides even over 8 times more heat than the electricity it consumes.

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What’s the difference between air, ground, and water-source heat pumps?

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Air-source heat pumps absorb heat from outside air and are easiest to install. Ground-source (geothermal) systems extract heat from the soil and offer higher efficiency, while water-source heat pumps use groundwater and provide the best seasonal performance — if local conditions allow.

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Do heat pumps work in cold climates?

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Yes. KRONOTERM heat pumps are engineered to operate efficiently even at –25 °C. Models like ADAPT and ADAPT MAX are widely used in Alpine and continental regions where winter temperatures are severe.

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Are heat pumps noisy?

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Not at all. Our systems are exceptionally quiet, starting at just 27 dB(A) (ETERA) and 48 dB(A) (ADAPT), making them suitable even for bedrooms, terraces, and dense neighborhoods.

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What maintenance does a heat pump require?

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Heat pumps need annual service checks to maintain performance. KRONOTERM systems are low-maintenance, with no combustion, chimney, or fuel storage. We offer long-term support and spare parts availability.

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Which heat pump is right for my home?

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The best system depends on your building type, insulation, and available space. Air-to-water pumps are ideal for renovations, while ground and water systems offer stable long-term efficiency.

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Can I use a heat pump in an old building?

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Yes. With proper planning, heat pumps work in both new and renovated homes. They can connect to underfloor heating or existing radiators, provided they are well sized.

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How long does installation take?

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Air-to-water systems can be installed in 1–2 days. Ground and water systems take longer due to drilling and permits but provide long-term efficiency and savings.

Costs

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How much can I save on heating costs?

Savings depend on your old system, insulation, and electricity rates. Many KRONOTERM customers report 50–80% lower heating bills, with SCOP values up to 8.48 reducing energy use dramatically.

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How much energy does a heat pump really consume annually?

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The annual electricity consumption of a heat pump depends on the system’s efficiency (SCOP), the building’s insulation, and the heating demand.

  • For a typical 120 m² well-insulated home using a KRONOTERM air-to-water heat pump with SCOP 5.20, the annual heating demand (~10,000 kWh) would require ~1,920 kWh of electricity.

  • A geothermal heat pump (SCOP 8.48) under the same conditions would need just ~1,180 kWh/year.

That’s equivalent to running a refrigerator and a clothes dryer year-round — to heat your entire home and domestic hot water.

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Are there subsidies or rebates for heat pumps?

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Yes — most EU countries offer 30–70% subsidies for heat pump installation. KRONOTERM helps you identify and apply for available national or local incentives.

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What is the payback time of a KRONOTERM heat pump?

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KRONOTERM heat pumps typically reach payback in 5 to 9 years, depending on the replaced system and available subsidies.

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How much does a heat pump system cost?

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Prices depend on the type and installation effort. Air-source systems are more affordable; ground and water systems require higher initial investment but lower running costs over time.

Functions

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Can I cool my home with a heat pump?

Yes. Most KRONOTERM models offer passive or active cooling. That means one system provides heating in winter and cooling in summer.

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Can I use a heat pump in an older home?

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Yes. KRONOTERM offers high-temperature models of heat pumps, which work with radiators and existing hydraulic systems — making them perfect for retrofits.

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