The heating curve is an intelligent control method used by heat pumps and condensing boilers, which adjusts the temperature of the water circulating in the heating system to changes in the outdoor temperature. This approach optimizes energy consumption and increases system efficiency while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature in the building.
How does the heating curve work?
Outdoor temperature sensing: The system uses an outdoor 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 water at a lower temperature to avoid overheating.
Adaptation to building requirements: The thermal insulation of the building, internal heat demand, and the type of heating system also influence the heating curve settings.
Characteristics of the heating curve
Slope: The slope of the curve determines the extent to which the heating water temperature changes in response to changes in outdoor temperature.
Higher slope: Provides more heating power in cold weather but can cause overheating in milder weather.
Lower slope: Provides less heating power, which works well in well-insulated buildings.
Offset: Adjusting the offset allows the curve to be moved vertically to increase or decrease the basic heating temperature.
Example of a heating curve
| Outdoor temperature (°C) | Heating water temperature (°C) |
|---|---|
| -10 | 60 |
| 0 | 50 |
| 10 | 40 |
| 20 | 30 |
On a colder day (-10 °C), the system circulates water at 60 °C, while on a warmer day (10 °C), it reduces the water temperature to 40 °C, thereby optimizing energy consumption.
Heating curve settings
Manufacturer's default settings: Most heat pumps and boilers come with a predefined curve that can be fine-tuned according to the building's specifications.
Setting considerations:
- Building insulation: Well-insulated buildings require a curve with a lower slope.
- Type of heating system: Radiators may require a higher curve than underfloor heating.
- User needs: The curve can be adjusted based on individual thermal comfort preferences.
Automatic adaptation: Some modern systems automatically adapt to heat demand based on indoor temperature sensing.
Summary
The heating curve is an intelligent control solution that optimizes the operation of the heating system by adjusting to the outdoor temperature. A correctly set heating curve not only increases comfort but also reduces energy consumption and heating costs. Regular inspection and fine-tuning of the system ensure that the heating curve operates efficiently in the long term.