Variables that determine aerothermal consumption
The consumption of an aerothermal heat pump depends on:
- Home size: an 80 m² home consumes much less than a 200 m² one
- Insulation: a well-insulated home can consume up to 3 times less than one without insulation
- Local climate: in Peralada or Navata (cold interior) consumption is higher than in Roses or Empuriabrava (temperate coast)
- Distribution system: with underfloor heating, consumption is up to 30% lower than with fan coils or high-temperature radiators
- Usage: primary residence vs. second home
Typical consumption by type of home in Alt Empordà
| Home | kWh/year heating | kWh/year DHW | Annual cost (€0.20/kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80 m² flat, Figueres, well insulated | 2,500–3,500 | 1,500 | €800–1,000 |
| 120 m² house, Roses, 1980s construction | 3,000–4,500 | 1,500 | €900–1,200 |
| 200 m² farmhouse, Peralada, poorly insulated | 6,000–9,000 | 2,000 | €1,600–2,200 |
| 180 m² villa, Empuriabrava, second home | 1,500–3,000 | 800 | €460–760 |
Note: electricity prices vary. At €0.15/kWh in off-peak hours, costs drop by 25%.
Comparison with oil and direct electricity
| System | Heating + DHW cost (150 m² home, per year) |
|---|---|
| Oil boiler | €3,000 – €4,500 |
| Natural gas | €1,500 – €2,500 |
| Aerothermal heat pump | €700 – €1,200 |
| Direct electric resistance | €2,500 – €4,000 |
Tips to reduce aerothermal consumption
- Programme temperatures by schedule: lower the setpoint to 17°C at night and during absences
- Use a time-of-use tariff: schedule DHW heating and peak heating during off-peak hours (11 pm–7 am)
- Combine with solar panels: covering 40-60% of the aerothermal's electricity consumption with photovoltaic solar is very cost-effective
- Improve insulation: closing thermal bridges can halve consumption in older homes