HOW THE CHEAPEST HEAT PUMP CAN COST YOU €15,000 MORE 

Budget heat pumps often promote impressive COP values measured under laboratory conditions — typically at +7 °C. In real winter conditions, however, efficiency drops sharply, and electricity consumption rises significantly. Within a few heating seasons, any initial savings disappear, and operating costs exceed those of higher-quality systems. 

“Many people focus only on COP instead of SCOP — the seasonal efficiency that reflects real operation throughout the year. The difference can be as high as 40 % in energy use,” explains Bogdan Kronovšek, CEO of KRONOTERM. 

Heat pumps with a high SCOP (above 5.0) deliver much lower running costs. Models with top-level performance — such as SCOP 8.48 — achieve exceptional seasonal efficiency, generating nearly nine kilowatt-hours of heat from a single kilowatt-hour of electricity. This level of performance is achieved by our KRONOTERM ETERA, designed and built in the EU for year-round operation in real conditions. Over the system’s lifetime, that difference translates into thousands of euros in savings and significantly lower heating costs compared with cheaper alternatives. 

A heat pump is not a disposable appliance — it’s a long-term investment designed to work efficiently for decades with proper maintenance. That’s why fast and reliable service is so important. Many low-cost devices fail exactly when service is needed, and users are left waiting for help or parts. 

We ensure quick troubleshooting and rapid spare-part availability through our trusted European partners and service teams. This approach reduces maintenance costs, shortens downtimes, and prevents premature replacements — giving you peace of mind throughout the system’s life cycle. 

A low purchase price inevitably reflects compromises in build quality and materials. It’s a paradox we often see: homeowners invest €15,000 or more in a new, energy-efficient façade — and then undermine the overall impression with the cheapest heat pump just to save a few hundred euros. Later, they spend thousands more on fences or enclosures to hide an unattractive plastic unit. 

We believe a heat pump should be part of your architecture, not hidden behind it. Our award-winning design line offers six premium finishes that blend naturally with modern architecture, including durable Corten steel. 

But aesthetics are only one side of the story. Thin sheet metal, poor weather protection, and plastic housings simply cannot withstand harsh European winters, humidity, or UV radiation. That means a higher risk of corrosion, electronic failures, and additional costs for protective shelters — often exceeding €1,500. 

Noise can be another hidden cost. Loud outdoor units disturb not only your comfort but also your neighbours’. The solution — acoustic shielding — can easily cost €4,000 to meet noise regulations and keep the peace. 

“A heat pump isn’t a disposable product — it’s an investment expected to run flawlessly for 20 years or more. Smart buyers look at the total cost of ownership, not just the price tag,” concludes Kronovšek. 

At first glance, a cheaper unit might seem like a good deal. In practice, it can consume 40% more electricity due to lower seasonal efficiency — adding more than €7,000 in energy costs over its lifetime. Add early replacement (≈ €5,000) and typical sound-proofing or shelter expenses (≈ €5,500), and the “cheaper” option can result in nearly €18,000 in losses. 

Before making a decision that could ultimately cost you thousands more, make sure you see the full picture. For an indicative calculation of long-term savings and expert advice on a smart investment in reliable heating, contact us.