ᐅ Analytical Evaluation of Different Energy Concepts

Created on: 26 Jan 2014 16:29
K
kirsel
K
kirsel
26 Jan 2014 16:29
The type of heating system, the share of renewable energy, and so on is basically a calculation problem, that’s clear.

We would also prefer to use a geothermal heat pump with hot water support. However, it doesn’t make sense if the system only pays off after 30 years and then needs to be almost replaced.

My question is: What do I need to carry out a proper energy assessment? Which key data do I need for my planned single-family house? Are there example calculators online that allow a rough estimate? Or can this only be done by a (costly) energy consultant?
K
K.Brodbeck
27 Jan 2014 09:33
Hello Kirsel,

In my opinion, the most important key factor is the development of energy prices. So, if you want to carry out a reasonable energy analysis (as I read between the lines, reasonable means the cheapest), you should find someone who understands the projected energy price trends over the next 30 years. Everyone else only creates models that have a more or less low chance of becoming reality!

Sometimes an investment that seems expensive at first (energy consultant) can save more money than a cheaper option (independent research on the internet).

Regarding heating: There is no general statement possible. You have to consider many individual, structural, and financial circumstances.

Good luck

K.Brodbeck
Der Da27 Jan 2014 10:33
Seriously? Finding someone who knows the price development for the next 30 years?
I think that’s like searching for the holy grail or making a deal with the devil.

My very modest amateur opinion: ignore the euro.
You should simply focus on building a house that requires little energy. Then the heating type doesn’t really matter.
We heat a KfW55 house with a gas boiler. That currently costs us less than €50 per month (pure gas consumption).
In my opinion, it’s not worth installing an expensive geothermal heating system. And whether you want a fan unit standing in front of your house is up to each person.
However, I have to say: we built a prefabricated house and trusted the energy concept provided by the manufacturer. It was a small risk, but since we didn’t want underfloor heating, the gas heating was fixed anyway.
K
K.Brodbeck
27 Jan 2014 10:36
Der Da schrieb:
Seriously? Finding someone who knows the price trends for the next 30 years?
I think that will be like searching for the Holy Grail, or making a deal with the devil.

Ah, he realized it!
€uro
27 Jan 2014 13:19
Der Da schrieb:
....my very humble layman’s opinion: €uro look away
Why, it is completely legitimate for you to share your opinion here!
So far, I have not come across anyone who can predict future energy price developments depending on the energy source! One thing is certain, though—they will rise more or less significantly. Electricity is the most elegant and flexible energy carrier. It is not entirely pointless that it is burdened with the highest taxes, levies, and fees.
The safety strategy is certainly to reduce demand from the outset, which means KFW 55, 40, or passive house standards.
Whether I would build a passive house in the Sahara is rather unlikely, but if my building were located on Zugspitze, it would definitely be the case!
Higher requirements do not come free of charge, and no gifts are handed out. Therefore, a balanced approach is certainly more appropriate than a general broadside from those who think they have found the philosopher’s stone! Almost anything can be sold!
As is well known, the truth lies somewhere between the extremes. It can be found relatively easily with some effort, but anonymous advice in forum posts is usually not suitable for this!

Best regards
K
klblb
28 Jan 2014 11:20
Der Da schrieb:

You should simply focus on building a house that requires little energy. Then the heating method doesn’t really matter.
We heat a KFW55 house with a gas boiler. Right now, it costs us less than 50 € per month (pure gas consumption).
In my opinion, it’s not worth investing in an expensive geothermal heat pump. And whether you want a fan standing in front of your house is a personal choice.


That’s the approach we’re also taking, though we aim to even go below KFW40. A well-insulated building envelope is a one-time investment that immediately generates ongoing savings. There are no maintenance or costly replacements required, unlike with a heat pump, for example.

When it comes to windows, the price is driven more by the frame material (e.g. wood-aluminum vs. uPVC) than by the thermal insulation performance (double glazing vs. triple glazing).
The same applies to masonry: expensive Poroton blocks and more affordable Twinstone or Gisoton blocks can achieve the same thermal insulation values, but with Poroton you get the classic look of traditional red bricks. It’s a matter of personal priorities.

It’s definitely possible to build well-insulated houses at a relatively low cost.