18 Sep 2018

Anyone who equips their heating system with a digital control can save up to 15 percent of energy. These are the results of a study by the ITG Dresden on behalf of the Federal Association of the German Heating Industry (BDH), which scientifically examines the savings potential of digital heating optimization. According to this, just by digitally equipping 100,000 heating systems, around 284,000 megawatt hours of heating energy could be saved each year.

When renovating an outdated heating system, the savings potential is up to 30 percent. In combination with digital control, the operation of the system is further optimized, which means that only as much heat is provided as is needed. The intelligent control integrates the current weather situation and weather forecasts, for example. Many products also offer presence detection, which automatically turns on the heating before the residents are at home.

Digital heating for comfort

The learning systems adapt to the habits of the residents. Almost all manufacturers now offer digital controls. Nowadays, modern boilers are already internet-enabled ex-works and can be connected to the internet with simple plug-and-play solutions. Most manufacturers also offer retrofit sets for older models. For all solutions, the issue of data security is a top priority for German manufacturers.

In the future, electricity from renewable energies will be increasingly used for heating via the heat pump

They, therefore, rely on the latest encryption technologies and the highest security standards for the network infrastructure. However, digital heating not only enables energy savings, but also increases comfort. With special apps from the manufacturers for tablets and smartphones, the system can be controlled while on the move or conveniently from the sofa. The optional networking with the HVAC specialist is particularly pleasant.

component of the energy transition

If maintenance is required or if errors are announced, these can be identified and rectified by the specialist company at an early stage. System failures can thus be avoided. With a view to the future, digital heating technology will play a decisive role. In the future, electricity from renewable energies will be increasingly used for heating via the heat pump. However, electricity from renewable energies is volatile and fluctuates.

By means of digital networking, the heat pump recognizes when a particularly large amount of renewable electricity is available and thus the most environmentally friendly and cost-efficient operation possible. This is realized through so-called Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS). Other generators and consumers such as a PV system, a charging station for the e-car, a thermal or electrical storage device, and other consumers can also be integrated into such a HEMS.

As a result, the consumer benefits from a high degree of energy independence. One of the world's leading trade fair ISH will be showing these and other heating technology solutions from March 11th to 15th in Frankfurt next year.