Guide to Using the Heat Pump and SPF Calculator
Welcome to our heat pump calculator! With this tool, you can calculate the Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF) of your heat pump according to VDI 4650 and make an informed decision for your heating system. In this guide, I will explain step by step how to use the calculator and interpret the results.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Calculation Principles and Formulas
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Understanding Results
- Hot Water Demand & Heating Strategies 🆕
- Heat Pump Catalog vs. Manual Entry
- Tips and Best Practices
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Technical Background Information
- Standards and Further Information
Introduction
What is the Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF)?
The Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF), also known as JAZ in German, is the most important efficiency measure for heat pumps. It indicates how much heat a heat pump generates on average per unit of electrical energy over a year.
Simply explained: An SPF of 4.0 means that the heat pump produces 4 kWh of heat from 1 kWh of electricity – 3 kWh come from the environment (air, ground or water), 1 kWh from the electricity.
SPF = Heat produced [kWh/year] / Electricity consumed [kWh/year]
What does this calculator compute?
The heat pump calculator determines based on your inputs:
- Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF) according to VDI 4650
- SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance) – European standard
- Annual electricity consumption for heating and hot water
- Operating costs based on your electricity price
- CO₂ emissions for environmental assessment
- Monthly breakdown with heat demand and efficiency
Why is the SPF so important?
| Criterion | Significance |
|---|---|
| Economics | The higher the SPF, the lower the electricity costs |
| Funding eligibility | BAFA funding requires SPF ≥ 3.0 (air-water) or ≥ 3.5 (brine/water) |
| Environmental impact | Higher SPF = lower CO₂ emissions |
| Sizing | Basis for correct system sizing |
Good to know: The SPF should not be confused with the COP. The COP is an instantaneous value under laboratory conditions, while the SPF is the average over an entire year under real conditions – and therefore much more meaningful!
Calculation Principles and Formulas
2.1 Basic Principle of SPF Calculation according to VDI 4650
VDI 4650 defines a standardized procedure for calculating the Seasonal Performance Factor. The basic principle is based on the weighted averaging of performance coefficients across different operating states:
SPF = Σ (Qi × COPi) / Σ Qi
Where:
- Qi = Heat demand at operating point i [kWh]
- COPi = Coefficient of performance at operating point i [-]
2.2 Coefficient of Performance (COP) at Different Temperatures
The COP of a heat pump strongly depends on temperature conditions. The calculator uses three characteristic operating points:
| Operating Point | Outside Air | Flow | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-7/W35 | -7°C | 35°C | Cold winter day |
| A2/W35 | +2°C | 35°C | Typical heating day (standard condition) |
| A7/W35 | +7°C | 35°C | Mild day, transition period |
Notation explained: "A2/W35" means: Air 2°C, Water (flow) 35°C. For brine-water heat pumps, you will find "B0/W35" instead (B = Brine at 0°C).
2.3 Temperature Dependence of COP
The COP decreases with increasing temperature difference between heat source and heating circuit. A rule of thumb:
COP ≈ η × Th / (Th - Tc)
Where:
- η = Efficiency factor of the heat pump (typically 0.4-0.5)
- Th = Flow temperature [Kelvin]
- Tc = Source temperature [Kelvin]
Practical consequence: Reducing the flow temperature by 5 K increases the COP by approximately 10-15%!
2.4 Calculating Annual Heating Demand
The calculator uses the degree-day method to calculate the annual heating demand from the design heat load:
Q_Heat = P_Design × FLH
Where:
- QHeat = Annual heating demand [kWh/a]
- PDesign = Design heat load at outdoor design temperature [kW]
- FLH = Full load hours [h/a]
Full load hours by building standard:
| Building Type | Full Load Hours [h/a] |
|---|---|
| Old building (unrenovated) | 2,000 - 2,200 |
| Standard (EnEV compliant) | 1,800 - 2,000 |
| Low-energy house | 1,600 - 1,800 |
| Passive house | 1,200 - 1,500 |
The calculator uses 1,900 full load hours by default, which corresponds to an average building.
2.5 Domestic Hot Water Heat Demand
Hot water demand is calculated according to DIN 4708 or VDI 2067:
Q_DHW = V_Day × ρ × c × ΔT × 365 × f_L
Where:
- VDay = Daily water consumption [liters]
- ρ = Water density (1 kg/L)
- c = Specific heat capacity (1.163 Wh/kg·K)
- ΔT = Temperature difference (typically 50 K: 10°C → 60°C)
- fL = Loss factor for storage and distribution (1.15)
Simplified:
Q_DHW [kWh/a] = Liters/Day × 365 × 1.163 × 50 × 1.15 / 1000
2.6 Monthly Calculation
The calculator performs a monthly calculation to reflect seasonal variations:
- Outside temperature per month: From climate data (location)
- Heating degree days per month: Only days below heating limit temperature (15°C)
- Proportional heat demand: Proportional to heating degree days
- COP per month: Interpolated from manufacturer data
- Electricity consumption per month: Heat demand / COP
2.7 Effect of Legionella Prevention
With activated legionella prevention (weekly heating to 65°C), the electricity consumption for hot water increases:
Q_Legionella = 52 × V_Storage × ρ × c × ΔT_Leg
With:
- 52 = Weeks per year
- ΔTLeg = Additional heating (65°C - 55°C = 10 K)
Important: Legionella prevention is mandatory according to DVGW W 551 for large-scale drinking water systems. For single-family homes, it is optional but recommended. The COP drops significantly at high hot water temperatures (from ~3.5 to ~2.0)!
Step-by-Step Guide
3.1 Project Management
Starting a New Project
On the start page, you have two options:
- "Start calculation" – Starts the input wizard
- Load project – Enter an existing 5-character project key
Project key: After each calculation, you receive a unique 5-character code (e.g., "RZHLL"). With this, you can retrieve your project at any time, edit it and repeat the calculation.
Editing an Existing Project
- Load the project using the project key
- Click on "Edit" in the results view
- The wizard opens with all pre-filled data
- Make your changes and recalculate
3.2 Wizard Step 1: Capturing Heat Demand
The first step determines how much heat your heat pump must provide.
Option A: Import from Heat Load Calculation (recommended)
If you have already performed a heat load calculation:
- Select "Import from heat load calculation"
- Enter the project key of your heat load calculation
- The calculator automatically imports:
- Design heat load [kW]
- Location data (postal code, city)
- Outdoor design temperature
- System temperatures (if defined)
Advantage: The combination of heat load and heat pump calculator provides the most accurate results, as all building parameters are used consistently.
Option B: Manual Entry
If you don't have a heat load calculation:
- Select "Manual entry"
- Enter the design heat load [kW]
- If unknown: Approximately 40-60 W/m² for unrenovated old buildings, 20-40 W/m² for renovated buildings
- Enter the postal code
- The calculator automatically determines the location and outdoor design temperature
Specifying Hot Water Demand
Regardless of the data source:
- Enter the annual hot water demand [kWh/a]
- Typical: 1,500 - 3,000 kWh/a for 2-4 people
- Or click "Calculate" for the hot water assistant (more details in Chapter 5)
3.3 Wizard Step 2: Selecting a Heat Pump
In this step, you select your heat pump. You have two options:
Option A: Choose from Catalog
-
First select the heat pump type:
- Air-water – uses outside air (most common)
- Brine-water – uses ground heat (probes or collectors)
- Water-water – uses groundwater
-
The catalog shows suitable models with:
- Manufacturer and model designation
- Nominal output at A2/W35
- COP at A2/W35
- SPF (manufacturer specification, if available)
-
Select a model by clicking on the row
Option B: Manual Entry 🆕
If your heat pump is not in the catalog or you have specific values:
- Select "Enter manually"
- Enter (optionally) manufacturer and model
- Enter the performance data:
- Nominal output [kW] at A2/W35
- Enter the COP values:
- COP A-7/W35 (at -7°C outside temperature) – for cold days
- COP A2/W35 (at +2°C) – required field, standard operating point
- COP A7/W35 (at +7°C) – for mild days
Tip: You can find the COP values in your heat pump's data sheet or on the manufacturer's website. Pay attention to the correct flow temperature (usually W35 = 35°C).
3.4 Wizard Step 3: System Parameters
In the last step, you configure the system temperatures and operating settings.
Heating Circuit Temperatures
| Parameter | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Flow temperature | Temperature of heating water from heat generator | 35°C (UFH) / 55°C (radiators) |
| Return temperature | Temperature of returning heating water | Flow minus 5-10 K |
| Spread | Difference flow - return | 5-10 K |
Golden rule: The lower the flow temperature, the higher the SPF. Each degree less brings approximately 2-3% higher efficiency!
Hot Water Settings
| Parameter | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Hot water temperature | Storage temperature | 55°C (minimum according to DIN) |
| Legionella prevention | Weekly heating to 65°C | Optional, but recommended |
Electricity Price
Enter your current electricity price (in cents/kWh):
- Standard household electricity: approx. 28-35 ct/kWh
- Heat pump tariff: approx. 22-28 ct/kWh (with blocking times)
3.5 Starting the Calculation
After entering all data, click "Calculate SPF". The calculator now performs the following calculations:
- Determination of annual heating demand
- Monthly distribution by degree days
- COP interpolation for each month
- Calculation of electricity consumption
- Economic analysis
The results are displayed immediately and the project is saved automatically.
Understanding Results
4.1 Main Result Card
The most important key figures at a glance:
Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF)
| SPF Value | Rating | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| < 2.5 | ⚠️ Critical | Not economical, check causes |
| 2.5 - 3.0 | 🟡 Adequate | Acceptable, but room for improvement |
| 3.0 - 3.5 | 🟢 Good | Typical for air-water HP |
| 3.5 - 4.0 | 🟢 Very good | Good brine HP or optimized air HP |
| > 4.0 | ⭐ Excellent | Brine/water HP with low system temperatures |
SCOP (Seasonal COP)
The SCOP largely corresponds to the SPF, but is calculated according to European standard EN 14825. It is used to compare different heat pumps.
4.2 Energy Key Figures
| Key Figure | Description |
|---|---|
| Heating demand | Annual heat for space heating [kWh/a] |
| DHW heat demand | Annual heat for hot water [kWh/a] |
| Total heat demand | Sum of heating + hot water [kWh/a] |
| HP electricity consumption | Power consumption of heat pump [kWh/a] |
| Auxiliary energy | Pumps, controls, etc. [kWh/a] |
| Total electricity consumption | Sum of all electrical consumption [kWh/a] |
4.3 Economics
| Key Figure | Description |
|---|---|
| Electricity costs/year | Annual energy costs [€/a] |
| Electricity price | Used electricity price [€/kWh] |
| Maintenance costs | Flat rate for annual maintenance [€/a] |
| Total costs/year | Electricity + maintenance [€/a] |
4.4 Monthly Breakdown
The diagram shows for each month:
- Heat demand [kWh] – bar chart
- COP [-] – line
- Electricity consumption [kWh] – derived value
Interesting: In summer, the COP is highest (warm outside air), but the heat demand is minimal (only hot water). In winter, it's the opposite – high demand with lower COP. The SPF is the weighted average across all months.
4.5 Location Information
The result card also shows:
- Postal code and city of the location
- Outdoor design temperature [°C] – lowest temperature for design
- Climate region (if available)
Calculating Hot Water Demand
The hot water assistant helps you realistically determine the domestic hot water demand – because in well-insulated houses, this often accounts for 30-50% of the total heat demand!
5.1 Opening the Assistant
In Wizard Step 1, click on the "Calculate" icon next to the hot water demand. The assistant is divided into two clear tabs:
- Tab "Consumption" – Determine hot water demand
- Tab "Heating schedule" – When should the water be heated? 🆕
5.2 Tab "Consumption" – Number of People
The most important input! Select by clicking on the person pictograms:
| People | Typical Consumption | kWh/Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 30-40 L/day | 800-1,200 |
| 2 | 60-80 L/day | 1,400-1,800 |
| 3 | 90-120 L/day | 1,800-2,400 |
| 4 | 120-160 L/day | 2,200-3,000 |
| 5+ | 150-200+ L/day | 2,800-4,000+ |
5.3 Shower Behavior
How extensively do the residents shower?
| Option | Description | Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Economical 🚿 | Short showers | 0.7× |
| Normal 🚿🚿 | Average | 1.0× |
| Extensive 🚿🚿🚿 | Long showers | 1.4× |
5.4 Bathtub Use
| Option | Description | Additional |
|---|---|---|
| Never 🛁❌ | No bathtub | 0 L/day |
| Rarely 🛁 | 1-2× per week | +3 L/day |
| Regularly 🛁💧 | Almost daily | +10 L/day |
5.5 Dishwasher
Does the household have a dishwasher?
- Yes: Reduces hot water demand (no hand washing)
- No: +5 L/person/day for hand washing
5.6 Tab "Heating Schedule" – Preparation Strategies 🆕
In the second tab, you can choose when the hot water should be heated. This has a direct impact on the heat pump's efficiency!
Why is the heating time important? The COP of a heat pump depends on the outdoor temperature. At noon it's warmer than at night – the heat pump works more efficiently. With intelligent choice of heating time, you can save 5-20% electricity!
Available Strategies
| Strategy | Description | Efficiency Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| ⏰ Keep warm continuously | Tank is kept at temperature around the clock | Reference |
| ☀️ Heat once daily | Heating at a fixed time each day | +5-15% |
| 🌅🌆 Heat twice daily | Heating in the morning and evening | +3-8% |
| 🌞 Solar-optimized (midday) | Heating 10am-3pm for maximum PV usage | +10-20% |
| 🌙 Night operation | Heating at night (10pm-6am) with night tariff | −5-15% |
Strategies in Detail
☀️ Heat once daily Ideal for most households. Choose 11am-2pm as heating time when the outdoor temperature is highest. The tank keeps the heat until the next day.
🌅🌆 Heat twice daily Good for households with high morning and evening consumption. Example: 6:00 AM (before showering) and 6:00 PM (before dinner).
🌞 Solar-optimized Perfect for households with photovoltaics! Heating automatically occurs between 10am-3pm when:
- The PV system produces electricity
- The outdoor temperature is highest
Tip: With a PV system and solar-optimized hot water preparation, you can significantly increase self-consumption and minimize electricity costs!
🌙 Night operation Only useful with a special night electricity tariff (HT/NT). Efficiency is lower (colder outdoor temperature), but can be compensated by cheaper electricity price.
Caution: Night operation reduces efficiency by 5-15% because the outdoor temperature is lower at night. It's only worthwhile if the night electricity price is at least 20% cheaper!
Individual Time Selection
For the strategies "Once daily" and "Twice daily", you can choose the exact time:
- First heating time: Dropdown selection from 00:00 to 23:00
- Second heating time: (only for "Twice daily")
Recommended times:
- 🌡️ Optimal: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM (warmest time of day)
- ☀️ With PV: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (highest solar irradiation)
- ❄️ Avoid: 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM (coldest time)
5.7 Result and Adjustment
The assistant always shows at the top:
- Calculated demand [kWh/a] – based on your inputs
- Daily consumption [liters] – for plausibility check
- Per person/day [liters] – should be around 30-50 L
Manual adjustment: If you want to adjust the calculated value (e.g., based on known consumption data), activate the "Manual adjustment" checkbox and enter your value.
5.8 Efficiency Display in Tab
In the "Heating schedule" tab, you'll see an efficiency badge as soon as you choose a strategy other than "Continuously". This shows the expected efficiency improvement (or reduction for night operation).
5.9 DHW Profile is Saved
The complete hot water profile is saved with the project:
- Number of people and shower behavior
- Bathtub usage and dishwasher
- Preparation strategy and heating times 🆕
When reloading, you can adjust all settings directly without having to re-enter everything.
Heat Pump Entry
6.1 Catalog Selection
The heat pump catalog contains current models from renowned manufacturers with verified performance data.
Displayed information:
- Manufacturer – e.g., Buderus, Viessmann, Stiebel Eltron
- Model – Complete type designation
- Output – Nominal heat output at A2/W35 [kW]
- COP – Coefficient of performance at A2/W35
- SPF – Manufacturer specification (if available)
Filtering by type:
- Air-water (AirWater) – Outside air as heat source
- Brine-water (BrineWater) – Ground via probes/collectors
- Water-water (WaterWater) – Groundwater
6.2 Manual Entry 🆕
For heat pumps not in the catalog, use manual entry:
Required Fields
| Field | Description | Typical Values |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal output A2/W35 | Heat output at standard condition | 4-20 kW |
| COP A2/W35 | Coefficient of performance at +2°C outside / 35°C flow | 3.0-5.0 |
Optional Fields (recommended)
| Field | Description | Typical Values |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Name of manufacturer | e.g., "Vaillant" |
| Model | Type designation | e.g., "aroTHERM plus 75" |
| COP A-7/W35 | Coefficient of performance at -7°C | 2.0-3.5 |
| COP A7/W35 | Coefficient of performance at +7°C | 4.0-6.0 |
Where can I find the COP values?
- Technical data sheet of the heat pump
- BAFA list of eligible heat pumps
- Manufacturer configurators online
- Keymark certificate
6.3 Interpreting COP Values Correctly
The COP values in the data sheet refer to standardized test conditions according to EN 14511:
Notation: A/W or B/W
A = Air, B = Brine, W = Water (flow)
Number = Temperature in °C
Examples:
- A2/W35 = Outside air 2°C, flow 35°C
- A-7/W55 = Outside air -7°C, flow 55°C
- B0/W35 = Brine 0°C, flow 35°C
Attention: COP values at W35 (35°C flow) are significantly higher than at W55 (55°C). Always compare values with the same flow temperature! The calculator internally converts to your actual flow temperature.
Tips and Best Practices
7.1 Choosing Optimal Flow Temperature
The flow temperature is the most important lever for a high SPF:
| System | Recommended Flow | SPF Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Underfloor heating | 30-35°C | ⭐⭐⭐ Optimal |
| Wall heating | 35-40°C | ⭐⭐ Very good |
| Large-area radiators | 40-50°C | ⭐ Good |
| Standard radiators | 50-60°C | Acceptable |
| Old radiators | >60°C | ⚠️ Critical |
Optimization tips:
- Replace radiators with larger ones → lower flow possible
- Perform hydraulic balancing
- Optimize individual room control
- Adjust heating curve (reduction at mild outside temperatures)
7.2 Optimal Heat Source Selection
| Heat Source | Advantages | Disadvantages | Typical SPF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air | Inexpensive, simple | Lower efficiency in winter | 2.8-3.5 |
| Ground (collector) | Stable temperature | Large area required | 3.5-4.2 |
| Ground (probe) | Compact, efficient | Expensive, permit required | 3.8-4.5 |
| Groundwater | Highest efficiency | Permit, water quality | 4.2-5.0 |
7.3 Consider Sizing
Common mistake: Oversizing the heat pump! An oversized HP cycles frequently (on/off), which:
- Reduces efficiency
- Increases wear
- Causes noise
Rule of thumb: Choose a heat pump that delivers about 80-100% output at outdoor design temperature. An electric backup heater is sufficient for peak loads.
7.4 Efficient Hot Water Production
| Measure | Savings | Effort |
|---|---|---|
| Reduce hot water temperature to 50°C | 10-15% | Low |
| Timer-controlled circulation pump | 5-10% | Low |
| Instantaneous water heater for peak demand | Variable | Medium |
| Combine with solar thermal system | 50-70% DHW | High |
7.5 Plan Monitoring
After installation, you should regularly check:
- Electricity meter for heat pump (separate meter recommended)
- Heat meter (often mandatory for subsidies)
- Operating hours and compressor starts
Check real SPF:
SPF_real = Heat meter [kWh] / Electricity meter [kWh]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between COP and SPF?
| Feature | COP | SPF |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement condition | Lab test, defined temperatures | Real operation over 1 year |
| Time period | Snapshot | Annual average |
| Significance | Comparison under standard conditions | Actual efficiency |
| Typical value | 3.5-5.0 (at A2/W35) | 2.8-4.5 (full year) |
The SPF is always lower than the best COP, as it also considers cold days, hot water preparation and defrost cycles.
Why is my calculated SPF lower than the manufacturer states?
Possible reasons:
- Higher flow temperature – The manufacturer often specifies SPF at 35°C
- Colder location – Your outdoor design temperature is lower
- Hot water share – High DHW demand lowers overall SPF
- Legionella prevention – Weekly 65°C heating costs efficiency
What flow temperature do I need for radiators?
This depends on the radiator size:
- Adequately sized (1:1 replacement): 50-55°C
- Oversized (e.g., after window replacement): 40-45°C possible
- Undersized: >60°C required → replacement recommended
Use our heat load calculator to calculate the optimal flow temperature!
Is a heat pump worthwhile with radiators?
Yes, if:
- Flow temperature ≤55°C achievable
- SPF ≥ 3.0 realistic
- Electricity tariff ≤ 30 ct/kWh
- Alternatively: Gas boiler old and inefficient
No, if:
- Flow temperature >60°C required
- Radiators significantly undersized
- No possibility to increase heating surface area
How accurate is the SPF forecast?
With correct input data (especially COP values and flow temperature), the deviation is typically ±10-15% compared to actual operation.
Factors not considered:
- User behavior (ventilation, setback periods)
- Defrost cycles (for air HP in winter)
- Control losses
- Buffer storage losses
What SPF do I need for BAFA funding?
As of 2024 (BEG):
- Air-water HP: SPF ≥ 3.0
- Brine-water HP: SPF ≥ 3.5
- Water-water HP: SPF ≥ 3.5
- Natural refrigerants: Bonus (R290 propane, R744 CO₂)
Tip: The BAFA list of eligible heat pumps can be found at www.bafa.de. The certified SPF values are also stored there.
Technical Background Information
9.1 Heat Pump Principle
A heat pump works like a "reverse refrigerator":
- Evaporator: Refrigerant absorbs environmental heat (air/brine/water)
- Compressor: Refrigerant is compressed → temperature rises
- Condenser: Heat is released to heating water
- Expansion valve: Pressure is released → cycle begins again
Environmental heat (3 parts) + Electricity (1 part) = Heating (4 parts)
→ COP = 4
9.2 Typical Values by Heat Source
Air-Water Heat Pump
| Parameter | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Source temperature | -15°C to +35°C |
| Output range | 3-20 kW |
| COP A2/W35 | 3.2-4.5 |
| SPF | 2.8-3.8 |
| Sound power | 45-65 dB(A) |
Brine-Water Heat Pump
| Parameter | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Source temperature | -5°C to +15°C |
| Ground temperature | 8-12°C (year-round) |
| COP B0/W35 | 4.0-5.5 |
| SPF | 3.5-4.5 |
| Probe length | 80-120 m per borehole |
| Collector area | 20-30 m² per kW |
Water-Water Heat Pump
| Parameter | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Source temperature | 7-12°C |
| Minimum flow rate | 2.5 m³/h per kW |
| COP W10/W35 | 5.0-6.5 |
| SPF | 4.2-5.2 |
| Well depth | 6-15 m |
9.3 Effect of Flow Temperature on COP
The following table shows typical COP values for an air-water HP:
| Outside Temp. | Flow 35°C | Flow 45°C | Flow 55°C |
|---|---|---|---|
| -7°C | 2.8 | 2.3 | 1.9 |
| 2°C | 3.8 | 3.1 | 2.5 |
| 7°C | 4.6 | 3.8 | 3.0 |
Insight: The COP decreases with:
- Colder outside temperature (→ less environmental heat available)
- Higher flow temperature (→ greater lift required)
9.4 Monthly Outside Temperatures (Germany)
The calculator uses location-specific climate data. Typical average values for reference:
| Month | Avg. Temp. | Heating Degree Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | -0.5°C | approx. 620 |
| February | 0.5°C | approx. 550 |
| March | 4.0°C | approx. 500 |
| April | 8.0°C | approx. 360 |
| May | 13.0°C | approx. 220 |
| June | 16.0°C | approx. 60 |
| July | 18.0°C | approx. 0 |
| August | 17.5°C | approx. 0 |
| September | 14.0°C | approx. 60 |
| October | 9.0°C | approx. 340 |
| November | 4.0°C | approx. 480 |
| December | 1.0°C | approx. 590 |
| Total | 8.7°C | approx. 3,780 Kd |
Standards and Further Information
10.1 Relevant Standards and Guidelines
| Standard | Content |
|---|---|
| VDI 4650 Part 1 | Calculation of seasonal performance factor (SPF) – short method |
| VDI 4645 | Planning and sizing of heat pump systems |
| DIN EN 14511 | Testing of heat pumps (COP determination) |
| DIN EN 14825 | Testing of heat pumps – SCOP calculation |
| DIN EN 12831 | Heat load calculation |
| DIN 4708 | Hot water demand |
| DVGW W 551 | Drinking water hygiene (legionella) |
| GEG 2024 | Building Energy Act – requirements |
10.2 Further Links
- BWP Climate Map – Outdoor design temperatures for Germany
- BAFA Heat Pump List – Eligible devices
- Our Heat Load Calculator – For design heat load
- Our Solar Calculator – PV self-consumption for heat pump
10.3 Funding
Currently (as of 2024), heat pumps are funded through the BEG (Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings):
| Funding Rate | Condition |
|---|---|
| 30% | Basic funding for heat pumps |
| +20% | Climate speed bonus (replacement of fossil heating) |
| +5% | Natural refrigerant (R290, R744) |
| +5% | Ground or groundwater HP |
| Max. 70% | When combining all bonuses |
Tip: Check the SPF with our calculator before applying! The minimum SPF is a funding requirement. The application must be submitted before commissioning the contractor.
To the Calculator
Ready for your heat pump calculation?
If you have questions about the heat load, we recommend first performing our heat load calculation – the results can be imported directly into the heat pump calculator.
Last updated: December 2025