The heating curve is an intelligent control method used by heat pumps and condensing boilers that adapts the temperature of the water circulating in the heating system to changes in the outside temperature. This approach optimizes energy use and increases the efficiency of the system, while maintaining a comfortable internal temperature in the building.
How does the heating curve work?
External temperature sensing: The system uses an external temperature sensor that continuously monitors the ambient temperature.
Water temperature control: Based on the heating curve, the system automatically adjusts the heating water temperature.
Example:
- In colder weather, the system circulates water at a higher temperature.
- In milder weather, it uses lower temperature water to avoid overheating.
Adaptation to the needs of the building: The building's thermal insulation, internal heat demand and the type of heating system also influence the heating curve settings.
Heating curve characteristics
Slope (steepness): The slope of the curve determines the extent to which the heating water temperature changes in response to changes in the outside temperature.
Higher slope: Provides more heating capacity in cold weather, but may cause overheating in milder weather.
Lower slope: Provides lower heating output, which works well in well-insulated buildings.
Offset: By adjusting the offset, the curve can be moved vertically to increase or decrease the base heating temperature.
Example of a heating curve
| Outside temperature (°C) | Heating water temperature (°C) |
|---|---|
| -10 | 60 |
| 0 | 50 |
| 10 | 40 |
| 20 | 30 |
On a colder day (-10°C), the system circulates 60°C water, while on a warmer day (10°C) it reduces the water temperature to 40°C, optimizing energy consumption.
Heating curve settings
Factory default settings: Most heat pumps and boilers come with a predefined curve that can be fine-tuned to suit the building specifications.
Setting considerations:
- Building insulation: In well-insulated buildings, a lower slope curve is required.
- Heating system type: Radiators may require a higher curve than underfloor heating.
- User needs: The curve can be modified based on individual thermal comfort preferences.
Automatic adaptation: Some modern systems automatically adapt to heat demand based on the detection of internal temperature.
Summary
The heating curve is an intelligent control solution that optimizes the operation of the heating system according to the outside temperature. A properly set heating curve not only increases comfort, but also reduces energy consumption and heating costs. Regular monitoring and fine-tuning of the system ensures that the heating curve operates efficiently in the long term.