Heat pump planning software: Why is it so important for heat pump projects?

Just with pen and paper and now replaced by software solutions as an indispensable tool in almost every area. Heat pump projects are no exception. But why is it that software is so important for heat pump projects right now?

Software enables experts and laypeople to work safely and efficiently through guided processes. In particular, they provide essential support when it comes to recording heating load, heating surfaces and hydraulic balancing in accordance with method B. All processes that used to take a lot of time and effort are now significantly accelerated by software solutions. In just a few minutes, all data can be collected in accordance with standards and an initial pre-selection of the appropriate heat pump can be made.

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Standard-compliant recording of heating load, heating surfaces and hydraulic balancing in accordance with method B

One of the central functions of the software is the standard-compliant recording of heating load, heating surfaces and hydraulic balancing in accordance with method B. This enables experts and laymen alike to record all relevant data in accordance with the standard and to speed up the calculation. The results can often be calculated on site and discussed with the customer right away. This not only helps to pre-select a suitable heat pump, but also to prepare a prompt offer and review subsidies.

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Comprehensive documentation

Here, many software solutions offer an integrated solution for creating all legally required calculations and documentation. This is particularly important when applying for funding and supports experts in providing comprehensive advice to their customers. This ensures that all necessary documents for project implementation are available.

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Assessment of eligibility and immediate application for funding

Software solutions often provide a quick check of the eligibility of a project within the framework of the corresponding funding programs. If a project is eligible for funding, it is also possible to apply for funding directly online. This significantly simplifies and speeds up the process and minimizes the risk of errors that could occur when submitting a manual application.

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Decision procedure: What should you consider when choosing the right software?

Choosing the right software for heat pump planning can quickly become overwhelming. Many promise almost the same thing, such as the latest functions, the fastest process or the lowest price. In fact, it's just a matter of finding a partner who supports the entire project cycle, from planning and implementation to monitoring and maintenance. So how do you make the right decision? What considerations should be made?

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One thing: What does the software absolutely have to be able to do?

It's best to start with the question, what is the one thing that makes a heat pump project so difficult? What exact problems arise during planning, implementation or documentation? This step helps to identify the core functions and features that you expect from the software.

Of course, in the end, the software should solve as many difficulties of heat pump projects as possible and offer a variety of extras. However, it helps in the first step to distinguish the important from the unimportant. Especially when the various providers list an almost endless list of functions and benefits, it helps to know which of them are really important to you. You can gradually add further criteria.

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The overview: What kind of software solutions are out there?

If you now have a list of essential functions, you get an overview of available offers. So which providers are there and which of them performs the really important functions best?

To make this step easier, we've listed some of the best software solutions for heat pump projects for you below in the article.

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The fastest way: Why does it help to book a demo?

So that you don't spend hours comparing websites, brochures and lists, it is often worthwhile to arrange a demo (demonstration via video conference). The most important challenges can be discussed in a short conversation. In this way, you can find out relatively quickly whether the selected software delivers what it promises. As a rule, the software can then be tested free of charge and you can gain your own experience.

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Other important selection criteria

In addition to the core functionalities, there are also qualitative aspects that can play a decisive role in heat pump projects:

• Ease of use: Software should be intuitive and user-friendly, particularly in a technical area such as heat pump projects.
• Customizability: The software should also be adaptable to specific requirements. You can often do this by adding or removing packages.
• Service and customer service: Reliable support is essential for technical questions or problems.

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Two categories in focus: How do the types of software for heat pump planning differ?

There are essentially two main categories of software solutions for heat pump projects.

• Process-oriented software
• Software with graphical tools/CAD integrations

Both software categories have their own advantages/disadvantages and are suitable for different application profiles. While graphics-based tools enable detailed planning and simulation, process-oriented solutions offer a faster and more intuitive user experience. But which is best suited for your own project?

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Process-oriented software

These software solutions are particularly intended for users who want clear, step-by-step guidance through the entire process without getting lost in technical details. Projects can often be digitally supported from start to finish.

advantages:

• Intuitive user interface that guides the user step by step through the planning and calculation process.
• Legally compliant planning, calculation, interpretation and documentation.
• Fast and efficient, without the need for CAD data or expensive equipment.

Disadvantages:

• Usually less visual, the detailed overview that graphic-based tools provide is sometimes missing.
• Data from existing building plans or technical drawings may not be entered directly, but must be transferred manually.

Typical applications:

• self-sufficient
• Eturnity
• Heating report

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Software with graphical tools and CAD integrations

This type of software is particularly interesting for professionals who value detailed calculations and simulations. The result is very accurate and there are many data points and special features that can be taken into account.

advantages:

• Comprehensive calculations that take into account both sanitation and heating aspects.
• Highly precise simulations that simulate real application scenarios and can anticipate potential problems.
• Integration into CAD systems enables direct transfer of construction drawings and other technical data.

Disadvantages:

• Due to the complexity of the software, familiarization and intensive training are usually necessary.
• For many applications, the extensive graphical presentation can be oversized, so that simpler software solutions would be sufficient.
• The interface can quickly become confusing due to the variety of functions.
• The calculation sometimes takes 6 times as long as compared to process-controlled software.

Typical applications:

• Dendrit STUDIO
• WP planner from Hottgenrot
• ZV plan

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Top software solutions for heat pump projects: Which are there and what can they do?

Modern tools offer extensive features that make the entire process easier for both professionals and laymen. The offerings range from process-oriented solutions that support the entire planning and implementation process to specialized graphical tools and CAD integrations for detailed planning and visualization. Some software solutions are offered by heat pump manufacturers themselves to make it easier to size their own products. In this section, we give you an overview of the top software solutions on the market, their core features and what makes each one unique.

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Process-oriented software

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Self-sufficient

The autarc solution enables heat load calculation, heating surface design and hydraulic balancing in accordance with method B in around 10 minutes. The scan app uses LiDAR technology to record room parameters, which recognizes building data in real time and calculates all necessary data. After scanning, the tool provides suggestions for heat pump manufacturers and a detailed report. The application also makes it possible to review and apply for Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings (BEG) from BAFA. In other words, legally required heat load, hydraulic balancing (B) and funding application in just a few clicks.

Main features:

• Standard-compliant recording and calculation: Heating load calculation, heating surface design and hydraulic balancing method B in accordance with the standard.
• Heat pump check: Can be stored on the heating manufacturer's website and allows end customers to check the suitability of the heat pump in just a few minutes.
• Easy data acquisition: Capture all required data in the office or via the mobile app for precise and seamless on-site input.
• Comprehensive documentation: All legally required calculations and documentation are documented step by step.
• Eligibility check/ application: Review of eligibility in accordance with Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings (BEG) from BAFA and subsequent application for funding directly from the app.
• Preparation of offers: Direct preparation of offers based on the data collected at the customer's site.
• Anytime access: All relevant data is always at hand, regardless of location.
• Optimized user interface: User-friendly operation especially for mobile devices.
• Faster process: Efficient workflow through direct data entry.

Offers the following:

• efficiency: The time saved per project is up to 20 hours. Thanks to automated functions, project planning and implementation can be significantly accelerated.
• mobility: The app allows you to access and enter data directly on site. A native app is also available via the Apple App Store.
• usability: The user-friendly interface and streamlined process make it easy to use, even for laymen.
• Automated documentation: The app automatically generates all required legal documents and evidence.

Learn more: https://www.autarc.energy/demo-buchen

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Eturnity

Eturnity provides specialized software solutions for heating installers and energy companies. It includes the Eturnity heating calculator and the heating expert. The heating calculator offers functions for potential customers to make initial contact on websites, including potential assessment, simulation and preparation of offers. The heating expert automates processes to reduce the time required for installers and offers customer-oriented offers and consulting tools.

main features:

• Eturnity heating calculator: This tool is particularly useful when making initial contact with potential customers and can be implemented directly on the website of heating installers. It enables automated potential assessments, simulations and the preparation of offers.
• Eturnity heating expert: This instrument reduces the time required in processes from initial contact to installation of a heating system through automation and standardization. It offers customer-oriented offerings and consulting tools.

Offers the following:

• Automate processes: By using Eturnity, installers can significantly reduce the time spent on various processes.
• customer orientation: With customer-oriented offers and consulting tools, the software can contribute to up to 30% better implementation rates.
• Saving resources: The Eturnity solution effectively saves resources through automation and standardization.

Learn more: https://eturnity.com/heizung/

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Heating report

Heizreport offers specialized software tools for calculating and evaluating various aspects related to heating loads and heat pumps. These tools are particularly relevant with regard to BAFA BEG funding.

main features:

• Heat load calculation: Enables room-by-room heating load calculations using the simplified procedure in accordance with DIN EN 12831. This function is particularly suitable for existing buildings.
• Heating surface design: Checks the suitability of heating surfaces, such as radiators and floor heating, for efficient operation with a heat pump.
• Hydraulic balancing: This tool ensures that optimal heat distribution in the building is achieved by calculating the required volume flows. The result is an eligible heating system.
• Assessment of building suitability for heat pumps: The building heating load is assessed according to consumption methods and the individual room heating loads. It is also checked whether the heating surfaces (floor heating and radiators) are suitable.
• Result output: All results and evaluations can be downloaded as a PDF.

Offers the following:

• Full review: The software offers a comprehensive review and evaluation, from building suitability for heat pumps to room-by-room heating load calculation.
• efficiency: Tools such as hydraulic balancing are used to optimize the efficiency and suitability of the heating system.

Learn more: https://www.heiz.report/index.html

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Software with graphical tools and CAD integrations

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Dendrit STUDIO

Dendrit STUDIO is a comprehensive graphical planning and calculation software that was developed specifically for the plumbing and heating sectors. The software offers integrated project management and an intuitive CAD interface.

main features:

• Project administration: Enables systematic and structured management of various projects.
• Free CAD interface: With intelligent drawing tools and assistants, users can quickly and efficiently create drawings for integrated calculations.
• sanitary area: Offers extensive calculation functions for drinking water and drainage networks, supplemented by integrated simulations for circulation and irrigation technology.
• heating planning: Complete planning, from U-value calculation to heating load, heating area design to pipe network calculation. The results are presented in detail in the heating report with a labelled plan printout and material extract.
• Hydraulic balancing: The software makes it possible to calculate the hydraulic balance both for pipe networks (heating/cooling) and for surface heating systems.
• Funding certificates: Documentation and printouts for applying for funding (e.g. KfW and BAFA) are possible.
• Excerpt from material: A detailed overview of all required materials is available and can be passed on to common AVA systems.

Offers the following:

• Holistic solution: Dendrit STUDIO enables end-to-end planning and calculation in both the plumbing and heating sectors.
• Funding compatibility: The software provides all necessary documentation for funding applications to institutions such as KfW and BAFA.
• Integration with AVA systems: The material listings can be easily exported to other common AVA systems.

Learn more: https://www.dendrit.de/produkte/studio/uebersicht

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Hottgenroth

The WP Planner from Hottgenroth is comprehensive planning and calculation software for heat pump systems, which also takes into account the requirements of modern, environmentally friendly heating technology.

main features:

• Integrated CAD system (HottCAD): For quick and efficient building registration.
• data integration: Data transfer and transfer from and to other 3D PLUS applications.
• Profitability calculation: Consideration of mixed financing, inflation rates and profit calculations using various methods.
• Determination of needs: Determining heating energy demand based on building and climate data.
• usage profiles: Customizable profiles for heating setpoint, hot water demand and more.
• JAZ calculation: According to VDI 4650 standard.
• Design of heat pumps: Consideration of different types of heat pumps and climatic conditions.
• simulation: Possibility to simulate cooling processes using reversible heat pumps.
• Hour-by-hour presentation of results: Various parameters such as power consumption and heat output.
• CO2 emissions evaluation: Evaluation of the building's CO2 emissions.
• PV planning integration: Transfer of results from a PV planner for optimal photovoltaic use.

Offers the following:

• Full integration: Integration of data from various sources and programs (combination of different heat pumps and sources). Import of load profile profiles via CSV.
• Comprehensive planning options: From basic assessment to detailed design of heat pumps.
• Eco-conscious features: Evaluation of CO2 emissions and integration of PV planning data.
• adaptability: Flexible usage profiles and extensive simulation options.

Learn more: https://www.hottgenroth.de/M/SOFTWARE/Fokusthemen/WP-Planer/Seite.html,217067,80406

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ZVPlan

ZV-Plan focuses on rapid processing of heating installations with a newly developed 3D tool. With the tool, users can record buildings and rooms. Functions for component definition, heat load calculation, boiler design, radiator design, floor heating design and valve adjustment are included. It was optimized in particular for single-family home projects.

main features:

• 3D building capture: With the 3D tool, buildings and rooms can be recorded.
• component definition:
• U-value calculation for simple and assembled components.
• Construction age requirement.
• Enter predefined U-values.
• Calculation using the temperature measurement method.
• Glazier diagram with condensation forecast.
• Heat load calculation:
• Room heating load in accordance with DIN EN 12831.
• Creating bay windows and dormers with the assistant.
• Boiler design:
• Design in accordance with various standards and consumption requirements.
• Radiator design:
• According to the room heating load.
• Consideration of comfort values in accordance with VDI 6030.
• floor heating design:
• Design in accordance with the adjusted room heating load.
• Requirements for suitable floor structures.

Offers the following:

• Automated processes: Input assistants and automated calculations increase the accuracy and efficiency of planning.
• flexibility: Calculations can be carried out in accordance with various standards and specifications.

Learn more: https://www.zvplan.de/Programm/Projekt.aspx

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Manufacturer offers

They offer specialized software solutions for the quick and efficient dimensioning of the brand's own heat pumps. Examples include the Vaillant quick design, bwp planning tools for heat pumps, the Stiebel Eltron heat pump tool and the Bosch planning tool for heat pumps. These tools generally do not work across companies.

Learn more:

Planning tool for heat pumps - Bosch: https://bosch-de-home.thernovo.com/tools/heatpump

Quick layout - Vaillant: https://www.vaillant.de/fachpartnernet/2-service-1/planen-und-beraten/wp-schnellauslegung/vaillant-fachinfo-wp-schnellauslegung-2295482.pdf

Heat pump tool - Stiebel Eltron https://www.stiebel-eltron.de/toolbox/waermepumpe/

Planning tools for heat pumps - bwp https://www.waermepumpe.de/fachpartner/planungstools/

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conclusion

Modern software solutions in the area of heat pumps have now become essential. These digital helpers not only facilitate the extensive work associated with such projects, but also improve the quality and efficiency of implementation. Software solutions can offer a wide range of functions and benefits, from extensive calculations to visualized simulations and administrative support.

When choosing the right software, however, it is important to keep certain criteria in mind. These include the specific requirements of the project, the usability of the software and, last but not least, the price-performance ratio. In addition, it is advisable to avoid pitfalls such as overly complex programs or missing features.

Software solutions for heat pump projects fall roughly into two main categories: graphic-intensive solutions with CAD integrations and process-oriented software. They both have their own advantages and limitations. While graphic-intensive solutions enable detailed and comprehensive simulations, process-oriented programs guide the user systematically and securely through the entire planning and documentation.

Finally, there are a variety of software solutions on the market, many of which offer specific strengths and functions. Although some solutions are universal, others are tailored to specific applications or brands.

Instead of digging through numerous resources, a short, targeted demonstration offers the opportunity to learn directly about the functionalities and applicability of the software in the context of your own challenges. In addition, many providers often grant free trial access after such a conversation, which gives you the opportunity to experience and evaluate the software first-hand.

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The fastest way to the right software: Schedule a demo with Self-sufficient!

Are you looking for reliable software to plan and monitor your heat pump project from A to Z? Try autarc for yourself! Our software solution enables you to make the entire process simple and precise, from planning to implementation. Regardless of whether you are an industry professional or a novice, autarc will guide you step-by-step through all legally required calculations and documentation.

From heat load calculation to area design to hydraulic balancing method B — everything is covered. In addition, you can check the eligibility of your project for government funding and apply for it directly via the software. Work with us to find out how autarc can help you with your project.

click here (link)to find out more about autarc and get started right away.