In contrast to conventional heating systems, heat pumps offer several installation options. Choosing the right installation location is crucial for efficient and trouble-free use of the heat pump. In this article, you will find out where you can install a heat pump and what you need to consider when doing so.

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Where can you install a heat pump?

A heat pump can inside or outside be set up. For indoor installation, a cellar, a technical room or a garage are possible. When installed outdoors, the heat pump can be placed in the garden or on the wall of the house. With a split heat pump, the outdoor unit is outdoors, while the indoor unit is located inside the building.

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The appropriate installation location for a heat pump depends on its type and local conditions.

Internal installation of a monoblock heat pump

An indoor monoblock heat pump contains all refrigerant-carrying components within the building. As a result, the system is weatherproof. However, placement requires sufficient space.

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Location and position

• The heat pump should be in a well-ventilated room with a stable, level surface.
• Air heat pumps require wall openings for the air ducts to extract and supply outdoor air.
• Corner positioning can prevent thermal short circuits and increase efficiency.

benefits

• Easy and quick installation thanks to compact design
• Low maintenance costs as it is not exposed to weather conditions
• Shorter piping routes between heat source and consumer

drawbacks

• Location selection limited as sufficient space is required in the building
• Higher weight than split systems, therefore less flexible in installation
• Access to the old building is usually not available

Construction measures

• Necessity of wall openings for air ducts with sufficient spacing
• A drain for the resulting condensation water must be planned

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outdoor installation of a monoblock heat pump

When a monoblock heat pump is installed outdoors, all refrigerant-carrying components are located in a compact unit outside the building. This construction allows flexible placement and is particularly suitable for existing buildings with limited interior space. The generated heat is transported into the building via insulated pipes.

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Location and position

• A stable base is essential, ideally a concrete foundation or a solid base.
• Placement near the house minimizes heat loss and cabling costs.
• A location protected from the wind prevents thermal short circuits.
• The air supply must not be blocked; a free-standing fan opening is required.
• Possible installation locations:
  • In the garden
  • On a roof
  • In the garage
  • Under a carport

benefits

• Flexible choice of location, particularly suitable for retrofits
• Shorter transmission routes between energy source and heating system
• No space required in the building, lower sound emissions in the living area

drawbacks

• Operation can be louder than when installed indoors
• Acquisition costs are often slightly higher
• Visual impairment possible
• Weather and temperature fluctuations have a direct effect on efficiency

Construction measures

• Foundation or base required to prevent shocks and subsidence
• Drilling required in the house wall for insulated heating and power lines

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Installing a split heat pump

A split heat pump consists of two separate units: an outdoor unit with fan, evaporator and compressor and a compact indoor unit with condenser and circulation pump. As a result, the heat pump is quieter overall than a monoblock variant and offers flexible placements.

Location and position

• Die indoor unit Can be installed in a cellar, technical room or laundry room to save space.
• Die outdoor unit is installed close to the building, ideally on a sturdy foundation or a special platform.
• A wind-protected position improves efficiency and reduces noise.
• Holes in the wall are required to connect both units to refrigerant-carrying lines.

benefits

• Flexible positioning of the outdoor unit
• Space-saving indoor unit with low space requirement
• Important components (indoor unit) are protected from weather

drawbacks

• Higher installation costs due to installation of refrigerant lines
• Regular refrigerant circuit inspection required

Construction measures

• Necessary wall holes for refrigerant-carrying lines
• Sturdy foundation for the outdoor unit

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Basic requirements for installing a heat pump

Installing a heat pump requires certain conditions for efficient and legally compliant use. Space requirements, noise protection and regulatory requirements play a central role.

Location requirements vary depending on the type of heat pump. The following requirements must be considered when installing a heat pump:

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What regulations do I have to comply with when installing a heat pump?

The installation of a heat pump must comply with legal requirements. Minimum distances Depending on the federal state, the neighboring property is mandatory. Noise protection regulations (TA noise) set limits for residential areas. One building permit is required for outdoor installation. Geothermal wells and groundwater heat pumps require a Water permit. In Monuments or nature reserves additional restrictions may apply. Before installation, a specialist company should check local regulations.

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How do I find the right installation location for the heat pump?

The right location for a heat pump depends on several factors, including space availability, sound insulation, efficiency and legal requirements. The following is a guide to choosing the right installation location:

• Determine heat pump type
  • Indoor or outdoor installation?
  • Monoblock or split heat pump?
  • Ground or groundwater heat pump with special requirements?
• Check space availability
  • Is there enough space in the technical room, cellar or garden?
  • Are minimum distances to walls, fences or neighboring properties guaranteed?
• Ensuring air circulation (for air-water heat pumps)
  • No nearby obstructions that impede airflow
  • No direct placement in corners or tight niches
• Observe noise protection
  • Maintain a distance from living spaces and neighboring properties
  • Avoid reflections from walls or hard surfaces
  • If necessary, plan soundproofing measures
• Take frost and weather protection into account
  • Set up outdoor units on frost-proof ground
  • Avoid direct sunlight or strong winds as this can affect efficiency
• Optimize the heating circuit and pipeline routes
  • Install the heat pump as close as possible to the technical room or heating system
  • Insulate pipes well so that heat losses are as low as possible
• Review legal requirements
  • Observe distance regulations with neighbors
  • Obtain any building permits or water regulations
• Ensuring maintenance access
  • Leave enough space for regular maintenance
  • Ensuring good accessibility for service technicians

Choosing the right installation location influences the efficiency, operating costs and longevity of the heat pump. A specialist company can assist you with planning and ensure that all technical and legal requirements are met.

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