HOW TO REDUCE HEAT PUMP OPERATING COSTS? 

Heat pumps are typically sized for a bivalent temperature of -5°C or -10°C, meaning that at such low temperatures, the system is supported by the electric heater in addition to the compressor. The heater activates only in extreme cold when the heat pump alone cannot generate enough heat to maintain indoor comfort. 

As climate change leads to milder winters, the need for the heater has significantly decreased. Oversizing a heat pump to avoid heater activation would be impractical, as most of the time, the unit would operate far below its optimal capacity. The electric heater, therefore, serves as a critical backup, ensuring stable operation in rare and extreme conditions. 

Turning off the electric heater may seem like a way to cut costs, but it can lead to several unwanted consequences: 

• Increased Wear and Long-Term Expenses – During extreme cold, the heat pump would work harder for longer periods to reach the desired temperature without heater support. This can accelerate component wear, leading to higher maintenance costs and energy bills. 
• Uneven Heating & Comfort Issues  – On exceptionally cold days, the heat pump may struggle to maintain stable indoor temperatures, leading to discomfort. A prolonged drop in indoor temperature can increase the risk of condensation, dampness, and mold, which may damage the building and affect indoor air quality. 

Modern heat pumps are designed to operate independently of electric heaters most of the time. In newer models, heater activation is rare due to precise system sizing and advanced control algorithms. However, older or incorrectly sized systems may rely on the heater more frequently if the base heat pump capacity is insufficient. 

Instead of turning off the electric heater, optimize its use with these smart adjustments: 

• Weather-Compensated Heating Curve – Set your heat pump to adjust its heating output based on outdoor temperatures. This ensures that heat is generated only when needed, reducing energy waste. The lower the required water temperature, the more efficiently your heat pump operates. 
• Hot Water Heating Schedules – Optimize the timing of domestic hot water heating to match lower electricity rates. Additionally, align it with your household’s routines to avoid heating water unnecessarily when no one is home. 
• Balancing Space Heating & Hot Water Production – Schedule hot water heating at night, after evening showers, or early in the morning before daily use. This prevents unnecessary competition for heating demand during cold mornings when space heating is most needed. 
• Adjusting the Bivalence Point (TT3000 Controller) – Set the heater to activate only at a specific outdoor temperature (e.g., -7°C). This prevents unnecessary heater use and maximizes energy efficiency. 
• Avoid Over-Aggressive Temperature Reductions – When heating is not needed, do not lower the heat pump’s water temperature below 25°C, as this may trigger the electric heater for compressor protection. Instead, allow the system to self-regulate based on the weather-compensated curve for smooth and efficient operation. 

Want to Lower Your Heating Costs? Contact us today to find the best energy-saving solution for your home!