Rising natural gas costs have intensified the search for alternative heating solutions in Germany. By late October, wholesale prices for European natural gas exceeded 100 euros per megawatt-hour, more than tripling compared to February levels before the Iran conflict began. With German gas storage levels unusually low, experts warn that winter demand could drive prices even higher, prompting a reevaluation of heating technologies.
Timo Leukefeld, an energy expert and independent building planner from Freiberg, argues that direct electric heating, particularly infrared systems, can be economically superior in specific scenarios. He notes that infrared heaters are practically unbeatable for new constructions and energetically renovated buildings. These systems convert electricity directly into infrared radiation, warming surfaces and people rather than just the air. Leukefeld claims this method is more comfortable and faster to regulate than traditional convection heating, creating a warmth similar to sunlight or a tiled stove. Additionally, he highlights that infrared heating avoids drafts and dust circulation, which benefits allergy sufferers, while maintaining higher indoor humidity levels.
Conversely, Martin Brandis from the Consumer Advice Centers advocates strongly for heat pumps due to their superior efficiency. He points out that while direct electric heaters generate roughly one kilowatt-hour of heat per kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed, heat pumps can produce three to five times that amount depending on the model. According to data from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, this efficiency translates to significantly lower operating costs. For a new 150-square-meter single-family home with an annual heating demand of 6,000 kWh, a heat pump would require approximately 2,000 kWh of electricity, costing around 760 euros at current rates. In contrast, an infrared system would consume the full 6,000 kWh, resulting in costs of roughly 2,280 euros.
The cost disparity widens in older, unsanitized buildings where heating efficiency is lower. In such cases, operating a heat pump might cost 2,280 euros annually, whereas an infrared system could reach 6,840 euros. However, regarding initial investment, infrared systems hold a distinct advantage. Leukefeld estimates the installation of an infrared system for a standard single-family home at approximately 12,000 euros, compared to 45,000 euros for a heat pump, though the Consumer Advice Centers suggest heat pumps can be found starting at 30,000 euros.
Government subsidies further influence the economic equation. For existing buildings, the state subsidizes heat pump conversions with 30 to 80 percent of eligible costs, capped at 28,000 euros per single-family home. No such funding exists for direct electric heating. Consequently, the Consumer Advice Centers conclude that heat pumps are cheaper in the long run for existing structures and can also be the better choice for new builds. Despite higher upfront costs, Leukefeld notes that infrared heaters last three times longer than heat pumps and require no maintenance. Furthermore, because they operate independently per room, a failure affects only one space, whereas a central heat pump or boiler failure leaves an entire house without heat.
Landlords must exercise caution when installing direct electric heating, as Paragraph 46 of the Building Modernization Act prohibits it in buildings with insufficient thermal insulation. Experts recommend consulting a specialist or energy advisor before making a decision to ensure compliance and optimal performance.
Sources: Handelsblatt.