As consumers increasingly seek climate-friendly heating alternatives, the heat pump market is experiencing rapid growth, but experts warn that costly mistakes can occur during the purchasing process.
Frankfurt – Heat pump sales in Germany reached record levels in 2025, with 299,000 units sold nationwide, representing a 55% increase compared to 2024, according to a recent report from the German Heat Pump Association (BWP). Demand for oil and gas heating systems is declining in contrast.
Dr. Jan Ossenbrink, CEO of Vamo, a company assisting homeowners with the transition from oil and gas to heat pumps, echoed this sentiment. “With a market share of around 40% in existing buildings, heat pumps have overtaken gas heating as the best-selling heating system for the first time,” he stated to Fr.de from Ippen.Media. “2025 marks a decisive breakthrough for the energy transition.” However, this shift can be fraught with potentially expensive errors.
Expert Warns: Not All Units Are Suitable for Every Household
Speaking with Fr.de from Ippen.Media, the specialist explained the key considerations for consumers when purchasing a heat pump. It’s important to note that not every unit is suitable for all buildings, and the wrong choice can lead to significant costs – and even a malfunctioning heating system.
“The biggest mistakes often happen during the planning, installation, and configuration of the system,” the expert emphasized. Adding to the challenge, “around 80% of heating engineers lack experience with heat pumps.” Ossenbrink recommends thorough consultation and the support of an experienced installer.
Costly Issues: Five Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing a Heat Pump
According to Ossenbrink, buyers must avoid several pitfalls when procuring a heat pump. The expert identified five common errors:
- Incorrectly Filed Subsidy Applications: “Consumers need to be particularly careful with subsidy applications. Applications must be submitted in advance and cannot be retroactively filed,” the expert explained. Ossenbrink noted that professional heat pump providers typically offer support services to optimize the application process.
- Caution with Particularly Inexpensive Heat Pumps: “Cheaper units often cut corners on components. After a few years of operation, efficiency declines, and the initial savings are quickly offset by ongoing costs,” the expert stated.
- Incorrect Positioning of the Heat Pump: According to Ossenbrink, each model specifies the optimal location. “Before installation, you should consider an ideal location. Several factors should be taken into account – such as air circulation, minimum distances, and noise levels.”
- Heat Pump Not Adjusted to Own Consumption: “Whether inexpensive or high-quality, the heat pump must be adjusted to actual consumption,” Ossenbrink said. An oversized heat pump repeatedly switches on, and off. A unit that is too compact runs continuously at full load, leading to increased wear and higher electricity consumption.
- Faulty Heat Pump Configuration: Only a “professionally and individually configured” heat pump operates efficiently. “Otherwise, even the best-sized and positioned heat pump is useless,” Ossenbrink warned. “Once the heat pump has been optimally adjusted to the home, it runs on its own.”
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Heat Pump Installation Feasible in Most Buildings
Homeowners considering installing a heat pump can generally proceed without major obstacles. “Around 80% of existing buildings can already be converted directly without any further adjustments,” Ossenbrink reported to our editorial team.
“In another approximately 10%, only the replacement of a few radiators is required,” the expert added. (Sources: German Heat Pump Association, internal research) (kh)
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