Understanding gas heating
Everything you need to know about gas heating
Gas heating is one of the most popular, tried and tested types of heating systems. Find out more about the advantages of gas heating as well as possible subsidies, the suitability for your building, costs and potential for combining it with other types heating.
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Sales figures demonstrate the value of gas heating
While gas heating systems had a market share of about 70% ten years ago, this figure has since grown to almost 80%. Particular growth has been seen in the sales figures for modern gas heating systems – gas condensing boilers (growth in market share: about 20%).
Modern gas heating systems make optimal use of gas. These gas condensing boilers are up to 30% more efficient than outdated gas boilers thanks to the condensing technology, which is able to utilise the heat and energy content (gross calorific value) present in the exhaust gases. This saves you valuable energy, since older boilers let much of the energy escape out the chimney.
The exhaust gas of old standard boilers is about 240°C, while the exhaust from low-temperature boilers is only 160°C. A modern gas condensing boiler, on the other hand, only puts out exhaust gas at about 60°C – and that saves a good deal of fuel, lowering your heating costs in the process.
New buildings or modernisation
Where does gas heating make sense?
The strengths of gas heating really shine when modernising the heating system of an existing building. In new builds, heat pumps are a climate-friendly alternative that makes use of environmental heat.
For a number of years now, heat pumps have beaten out gas heating systems as the most popular choice in new builds, and this trend is only growing stronger.
Costs for the gas connection
If your home does not have a gas connection yet, you must reckon with the associated expense. Gas utilities charge around €2,000 to install a gas connection. However, some offer this service for free. You can also expect at least another €700 for installing the connection in the house itself, or perhaps even more depending on the situation.
Maintenance costs
In addition to the investment expense, there are also costs for maintenance. Heating installers have plenty of experience with gas heating systems, however, and the appliances are generally simple to maintain.
Natural gas prices are stable
Fuel cost plays an important role in the cost-effectiveness of a gas heating system. Natural gas costs have ranged between 5.8 and 6.8 cents per kilowatt-hour in recent years. However, the annual costs depend heavily on the actual consumption, of course. For this reason, it makes sense to replace your heating unit if it no longer meets the current state of the art.
With a gas condensing boiler, you can heat your home efficiently, inexpensively and reliably. The investment in a new gas condensing boiler will pay off in just a few years. The system must be adapted to the user and the building by adjusting the control scheme to ensure optimal use of the condensing effect. You will then be able to save on heating costs for years to come. If you would like your heating to be especially environmentally friendly and fit for the future, you should buy a gas hybrid heating system. This is especially worthwhile thanks to the attractive funding available.
Frequently asked questions about gas heating
If this is your first condensing boiler, an expert should check whether you need a plastic exhaust system in your chimney shaft. Because condensation can form, a drain connection is also required. Insulating the pipes sufficiently will also save energy.
Panel heating, such as underfloor heating, is ideal. This is because the condensing effect of a modern gas heating system only works when the heating is no warmer than 60°C, which allows the exhaust gas to cool off as necessary. The radiator must be designed for this temperature. Consult a professional to learn which radiator is appropriate for your gas heating system.
Condensing boilers with a “renewable ready” design are prepared for use in hybrid heating systems. To obtain a subsidy for this gas heating system, you must add a heat generator that makes use of renewable energies within two years of commissioning. It generally makes sense to install the entire heating system at the same time, since this will net you a higher subsidy rate.
Heating with gas is just as safe as other heating options. This is ensured by safety systems on the appliance as well as statutory regulations covering the planning, installation and operation. You should definitely leave all the work to an expert and have the unit serviced regularly.
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