ᐅ New Construction: Underfloor Heating Instead of Radiators and Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery – Yes or No?

We are currently planning the construction of a new single-family house with 134 sqm (1442 sq ft) of floor area in Lower Saxony through a developer. The house is intended to meet the KfW 70 standard. We are now considering installing underfloor heating instead of conventional radiators. According to the developer, the additional cost would be around €8000. Is it worth it? What about rooms like the bedroom? Usually, the window is open at night there.

Furthermore, we are thinking about installing a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery. With this ventilation system, we could reach the KfW 55 standard and thus qualify for additional funding. After deducting the subsidy, the ventilation system would cost us about €4000.

Is all of this worthwhile?

Hello,

I would say both options improve comfort.

I remember having underfloor heating from my parents' house and I already miss it in my current apartment. That’s why it was clear to me that when we build, we will install underfloor heating. They can be controlled separately for each room.

Regarding the controlled ventilation system: We also chose a controlled mechanical ventilation system because we don’t have the time or desire to ventilate properly 3 to 5 times a day.

Whether this added comfort is worth an extra €12,000 to you is something only you can decide.

Building a house with radiators nowadays? Why would anyone do that? Do you have money to burn?

A controlled ventilation system for just an additional 4,000 (4K) is definitely worth it without hesitation... but first, make sure whether it’s a central unit and not just a few fans installed in the walls... otherwise, it would be useless.

Mycraft schrieb:
Building a house with radiators nowadays? Why would anyone do that? Is money just burning a hole in your pocket?

A mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery for just an additional 4,000 euros is definitely worth it without hesitation... but first make sure whether it’s a central system and not just a few fans mounted in the walls... otherwise, it would be useless..

The system costs 9,500 euros. I have already deducted two subsidies. A 2,500-euro repayment grant from the KfW and 2,000 euros from the city as a subsidy for KFW 55.

Yes, I already understand that the money comes from the subsidy... you don’t need to explain that again... I just meant that at that price, I wouldn’t even hesitate...

For KfW55 certification and grants, you will definitely need appropriate construction supervision and documentation—basically from the very beginning. This is now required by KfW due to excessive misuse in the past. Please do not overlook these costs and make sure to clarify them in time.