For anyone even remotely interested in technology, it’s clear that hybrid cars are vehicles that combine two types of propulsion, typically gasoline and electric. Hybrid heating systems operate similarly, combining two energy sources.
Let’s delve into how hybrid heating systems function, their advantages, and whether they lead to lower heating costs, according to experts from the German company Viessmann.
Brief Overview of Hybrid Heating Systems
A hybrid heating system is a factory-made device for generating heat for heating, regulated by a superior controller and delivering heat through at least two different energy sources or origins. Additionally, these factory-made devices are often combined with thermal solar or photovoltaic cells, which convert solar energy into heat or electricity.
The Energy Sources
One heating source is a heat pump that operates on electricity. The other energy source could be natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, heating oil, or pellets, depending on the primary energy source already in use by the household. Given that heating with natural gas has long been recognized in Europe as the most economical and environmentally acceptable heating option utilizing natural resources, the most common scenario involves combining an air-to-water heat pump with a condensing gas boiler.
Flexibility in Energy Selection
The hybrid system offers the flexibility of choosing energy sources. Does this mean selecting one energy source for the entire heating season, or is there an option to use the boiler during the day and the heat pump at night when electricity is cheaper?
READ MORE: HEAT PUMPS – ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
The choice of heating energy means that the superior controller practically ensures that the optimal form of energy, i.e., the energy source, is always used. The regulation continuously calculates the optimal point based on the price of electricity, gas, heating oil or pellets, the difference in outside temperature and the desired room temperature, as well as the current capacity of the heat pump. Based on this, it selects what is best for the user.
Automated Energy Switching
The transition from one energy source to another is completely automated. The end-user only selects one of several operational variants offered by the hybrid device, such as the economic variant (if they want to minimize operating costs), the ecological variant (minimal environmental pollution with CO2 emissions), or the comfort variant (fastest achievement of desired parameters).
Programming Flexibility
In addition to the system autonomously selecting the most suitable energy source based on the criteria mentioned above, users can also program the system to use specific energy sources at particular times. Moreover, users can adjust temperature programs for their entire property, the desired temperature of hot water, and other parameters of interest. Additionally, users can control the device via a wireless network from anywhere using their mobile phone or computer.
Space Requirements and Applicability
The hybrid heating system is specifically designed for private residential properties. The dimensions of its external and internal units are truly minimal. The external unit can easily find a suitable place on the property, on its facade or immediately adjacent to it. The internal unit, which also includes a hot water tank, is very compact, with a similar to a medium-sized refrigerator.
Heating Capacity
Viessmann hybrid systems, named Vitocaldens, are currently available in several capacities with a maximum output power of up to 19 kW. Depending on the building physics and the purpose of the property, this power may be sufficient to heat, for example, a residential property of 200 square meters. Since it is possible to connect up to eight such devices in cascade, larger areas can also be covered. Additionally, besides heating, the device can cool the property and prepare hot water for it.
Integration with Existing Central Heating Systems
Viessmann’s Vitocaldens hybrid system can easily be connected to any existing central heating system. If necessary, the existing heat generator can also be integrated into the renovated heating system.
Post-Purchase Support and Maintenance
With the purchase of any Viessmann solution, including the hybrid system, customers receive support in terms of installation and training for use. After installation and commissioning of the system, the customer has access to an authorized Viessmann service technician, who will gladly answer any additional questions related to the system’s operation, adjustment, and the like, as well as provide regular servicing and maintenance of the device.
Warranty and Service
The warranty period for hybrid systems is 2 years, and we recommend servicing once a year, before each heating season. Of course, if the device also has a cooling function for the property, it is advisable to contact a service technician before the start of the summer season to ensure that the device will cool with optimal performance.
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Foto: Viessmann