Sustainably through the winter: Heating properly

The heating sector is the second largest source of CO2 emissions in Germany, accounting for 38%. Around a third of final energy consumption is used for heating and hot water. By heating correctly, we can all make a significant contribution to saving CO2. But how?

First and foremost, it is about reducing your own energy consumption. This can be done by using an efficient system or by using a renewable fuel. The heat pump is one of the most environmentally friendly heating systems currently available. However, consumption can also be reduced by making small changes to your own heating habits.

1. Choose the right room temperature.

Many people believe that if you turn up the heating, it will get warmer faster. However, this is a myth. In fact, the numbers on the heater show at what room temperature the heater should stop heating.

1 - 12 degrees Celsius
2 - 16 degrees Celsius
3 - 20 degrees Celsius
4 - 24 degrees Celsius
5 - 28 degrees Celsius

2. Ventilate properly

Instead of keeping the window ajar all the time, it is better to ventilate regularly. The best way to do this is to open two different windows at the same time to create a draft. Regular ventilation in winter is also important for another reason: it prevents the formation of mold.

3. Keep doors closed

If you're relaxing in your living room, you don't necessarily need to have the heating on in the kitchen. Close your door to keep the heat in the room and not unnecessarily spread it throughout the apartment.

4. Leave radiators free

Make sure that no curtain or piece of furniture blocks the radiator and thus traps heat.

5. Do not let rooms cool down completely in winter

Sometimes it is more efficient to leave the heating on at a low temperature while you leave the house than to turn it off completely. Here you have to consider how long you will be away for. If you are away for several days, the heating should of course be turned off. However, if you only work during the day, more energy will be used if you have to heat the cold apartment again in the evening.

6. Bleed radiators regularly

A small standard trick for more efficient heating. When venting, the heating water is distributed optimally.

Photo credits: Julian Hochgesang