5 Hidden Energy-Saving Tips for Heat Pump Heating: Save Up to €50 Per Month

As November temperatures drop across Europe, households in Germany, the UK, Sweden, and Poland are switching on their heat pump heating systems. Heat pumps are known for their high efficiency, but many users find that their actual electricity bills are higher than expected. The reason is usually not the heat pump itself—it’s how it’s used.

Based on real test data from European families, here are five simple heat pump energy-saving tips that require no equipment modifications. With these adjustments, households can save €40–€50 per month, significantly reducing winter heating costs.

1. Stay Within the Golden Temperature Range (19–22°C)

Heat pumps operate most efficiently between 19°C and 22°C. Temperatures outside this range lead to unnecessary power consumption:

• Below 18°C: The heat pump cycles on and off frequently due to low load, increasing energy use.
• Above 23°C: Energy consumption rises exponentially.

Real example — Munich, Germany:
The Smith family reduced their thermostat from 24°C to 21°C and saved €32 per month without sacrificing comfort.

Recommended settings:

• Daytime: 20–21°C
• Night: 18–19°C
• Use thick curtains to retain heat and reduce heat loss through windows.

2. Use Nighttime Frost Protection Mode Correctly

Northern and central Europe often drops below –5°C at night. Keeping the heat pump running at high temperatures overnight wastes energy. Instead, use the built-in frost protection mode (5–8°C).

Real example — Stockholm, Sweden:
The Lena family switched from maintaining 16°C overnight to frost protection mode and saved €28 per month.

Frost protection prevents pipe freezing at a low load, making it ideal for rooms that remain unoccupied at night or long hours.

3. Clean Air Filters Regularly for Better Efficiency

Dust buildup blocks airflow and reduces heat exchange efficiency by up to 30%, increasing energy consumption.

Maintenance frequency:

• Clean the filter every 2–3 weeks
• Rinse with water and allow to dry
• Schedule professional inspections before each heating season

Real example — Essex, UK:
After cleaning their filter, households noticed a 2–3°C increase in outlet air temperature and reduced electricity bills by €15 per month.

4. Match the Heat Pump Settings With Your Terminal Heating System

Heat pumps work differently depending on whether you use underfloor heating or fan coil units.

Underfloor heating

• Set water temperature to 45–50°C (vs. 60–65°C for gas boilers)
• The system retains heat longer, reducing heat pump cycling

Real example — Lyon, France:
Lowering water temperature from 55°C to 48°C saved €22 per month.

Fan coil units

• Avoid high fan speed
• Medium to low speed improves efficiency and comfort

5. Avoid Frequent On-Off Cycling

Heat pumps use more energy during startup due to preheating. Incorrect usage can increase consumption by 15–20%, according to Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

Best practice:

• Short trips (1–3 hours): Do NOT turn off the heat pump—reduce the temperature by 2–3°C
• Long trips (6+ hours): Turn off the system or use frost protection mode

Consistent low-load operation is more efficient than frequent restarts.

Conclusion: Smart Usage Helps You Save €40–€50 Monthly

Saving energy with a heat pump isn’t about reducing comfort—it’s about using the system correctly. These five practical adjustments can help European households maintain a comfortable 20–22°C indoor temperature while lowering winter heating bills.

By optimizing temperature settings, using frost protection mode, cleaning filters, and avoiding constant on-off cycles, you can easily get through the heating season with lower costs and higher comfort.