Heat‑pump sales surged to a record in 2025, signaling a major shift in Germany’s heating market as consumers move away from oil and gas systems.
Record sales and market breakthrough
According to a BWP‑Mitteilung, 299 000 heating heat pumps were sold nationwide in 2025, a 55 percent increase over the previous year. The demand for oil and gas heating fell in contrast.
Dr. Jan Ossenbrink, managing director of Vamo, notes that heat pumps now hold a market share of roughly 40 percent in retrofit projects and have become the most sold heating system, overtaking gas boilers.
Expert warns: not every pump fits every home
In an interview with Fr.de, Ossenbrink stresses that the biggest errors occur during planning, installation and commissioning, especially since “around 80 percent of heating installers lack experience with heat pumps.” He advises thorough consultation and working with skilled installers to match the device to the building’s consumption and location.
Five costly mistakes to avoid
Ossenbrink identifies the following common pitfalls:
- Incorrect subsidy applications: Applications must be submitted in advance and cannot be added later. Professional providers often offer a subsidy service to help.
- Choosing overly cheap models: Low‑cost units may compromise component quality, leading to reduced efficiency and higher operating costs over time.
- Poor placement of the unit: Each model specifies optimal installation conditions such as airflow, minimum distances and noise considerations.
- Mismatch with household consumption: An oversized pump cycles frequently, while an undersized one runs at full load, both increasing wear and electricity use.
- Improper system settings: Only a correctly calibrated and individually adjusted pump delivers efficient performance.
Installation feasibility for existing buildings
Ossenbrink reports that about 80 percent of existing buildings can be converted to heat‑pump heating without major modifications. For roughly 10 percent, only a few radiators need replacement, while only a slight minority of cases would be uneconomical without additional measures.
Sources: Bundesverband Wärmepumpe, own research.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many heat pumps were sold in Germany in 2025?
299 000 heating heat pumps were sold, representing a 55 percent increase over 2024.
What share of retrofit projects do heat pumps hold?
Heat pumps account for roughly 40 percent of the market in retrofit buildings.
What are the most common mistakes when purchasing a heat pump?
The five frequent errors are: incorrect subsidy applications, opting for very cheap units, improper placement, mismatching the pump to household consumption, and faulty system settings.
How will you ensure a successful heat‑pump upgrade for your home?
