Alternative heating in old buildings: Efficient solutions for old buildings

Altbau Wohnung heizen

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Old buildings are known for their charm, but often present challenges - especially when it comes to heating. High energy costs, inadequate insulation and outdated heating systems make the question of alternative heating methods particularly urgent. But which heating systems are suitable for old buildings and which factors should be taken into account? In this article, we show you how you can heat efficiently with innovative technologies and sustainable solutions.

Challenges when heating old buildings

Heating old buildings is often challenging. The reasons for this are:

  • Poor insulation: Many old buildings have insufficiently insulated windows, roofs and walls, which means heat is lost quickly.
  • Outdated heating systems: Older systems work inefficiently, consume a lot of energy and cause high costs.
  • Technical limitations: Small basements, old chimneys and a lack of space for modern systems make it difficult to install new heating systems.

An effective heating system must therefore be adapted to the specific conditions of an old building. The right choice of heating system depends on many factors, including the condition of the building, the budget and the individual needs of the residents. A holistic approach that weighs up the various options can save costs and increase living comfort in the long term.

Which heating systems are suitable for old buildings?

There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution for old buildings, as each building has its own individual requirements. Here is an overview of the best options:

Heating systems with fossil fuels

Modern condensing boilers that use oil or gas are a popular choice. They use the heat hidden in the flue gases and thus achieve an efficiency of up to 98%. The combination with a solar thermal system, which provides hot water and supports the heating system during transitional periods, is particularly efficient.

Advantages:

  • Cost-efficient to purchase

  • Can be used flexibly, even without extensive refurbishment

Heating systems with renewable energies

Systems that rely on renewable energies offer a sustainable alternative:

  • Heat pumps They use environmental energy from air, water or earth. However, good insulation is important for efficient use, which requires additional refurbishment measures in many old buildings.

  • Biomass heating systems: Old buildings can be heated CO₂-neutrally with pellets, logs or wood chips. The old oil tank can often be used as a pellet store.

Advantages:

  • Low operating costs
  • Climate-friendly

Bitcoin heating systems - innovative and flexible

Bitcoin heating is one of the most exciting technologies for old buildings. It uses the waste heat from Bitcoin miners to heat living spaces:

Bitcoin heizung

  • No structural changes required: the devices can be easily installed and operated - ideal for poorly insulated old buildings.
  • Dual use: While the heat is being used, the miners generate bitcoins in parallel, which can serve as financial relief.
  • Sustainability: Particularly efficient in combination with green electricity.

"Bitcoin heating combines heating cost savings with technological progress - an ideal solution for old buildings."

Technical requirements and planning

The following points should be checked before installing a new heating system:

  1. Space requirements: Many systems such as pellet heating systems require additional storage space for fuels.
  2. Flue gas system: Older chimneys often need to be adapted for modern systems.
  3. Energy requirement: A heating load calculation by experts ensures that the system meets the requirements of the building.

Important factors for choosing a heating system:

  1. Condition of the insulation
  2. Available space for systems and storage
  3. Costs for purchase and operation
  4. Environmental friendliness and long-term sustainability

Practical tips for owners and tenants in old buildings

In addition to choosing the right heating system, these measures can help to reduce heating costs:

  • Seal windows and doors: Reduces heat loss and is inexpensive to implement.

  • Regular maintenance: Vent radiators and have systems checked regularly - regular maintenance saves costs in the long term. 

  • Use subsidy programs: The federal and state governments offer attractive subsidies for sustainable heating systems and renovation measures. 


Efficient heating in old buildings with modern solutions

Old buildings place special demands on heating systems, but with the right technology and well thought-out planning, heating costs can be significantly reduced. Innovative systems such as Bitcoin heating not only offer flexibility and efficiency, but also combine sustainability with economic benefits. With the help of our profitability calculator, you can compare the costs of different heating systems to make the right choice for your old building. Whether classic, regenerative or technologically advanced - there is a suitable solution for every building.

Take the first step: find out about alternative heating systems such as Bitcoin heating and benefit from the latest technology - ideal for old buildings too!

Maximilian Obwexer profile picture

Maximilian Obwexer

Maximilian Obwexer est le cofondateur et le directeur général de 21energy. Il partage son expertise ici sur le blog et en tant qu'orateur lors de diverses conférences. Le sujet principal est l'exploitation minière de Bitcoin et l'utilisation de la chaleur résiduelle.

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