Frequently asked questions

A heat pump works best when at least two of three conditions are met: good insulation, low-temperature emitters (underfloor heating or oversized radiators), and solar panels. If only one, a hybrid gas/HP setup is usually smarter. We assess this during the free on-site visit.

A modern Buderus air/water unit runs at 35-50 dB(A) at 3 metres — comparable to a fridge or quiet conversation. Placement (wall-mounted vs. free-standing), distance from windows and neighbours matters more than the spec sheet. We check local noise regulations too.

Air/water HP: €12,000 – €20,000 depending on power and complexity. Hybrid (HP + existing boiler): €8,000 – €14,000. Geothermal: €25,000 – €40,000 (highest efficiency, lowest running cost). After subsidy, real cost often drops €3,000-€8,000.

Flanders: no, banned since 1 Jan 2022. Brussels: no, banned since June 2025. Wallonia: banned in new builds (March 2025), replacement ban confirmed for January 2026. See our blog for the full timeline.

Since 1 July 2025, VAT on gas boiler installation in homes 10+ years old is 21% (was 6%). On a €5,000 project, that's €750 extra. If you're planning a gas boiler, consider a hybrid (gas + HP) — the heat pump component gets 6% VAT.

For now: no — filing is on your side. We provide a calculator, a complete checklist of documents, and guidance on the application process. We are building a service to handle filing for you — coming soon.

Category 1 HP subsidy was removed 1 March 2026. Cat. 2 was halved. EPC Label Premium (up to €2,500) ends 1 July 2026. All HP subsidies end 31 December 2027. If you're in Cat. 2-4, acting in 2026 is worth €2,000-€8,000 compared to waiting.

Typical timeline: 2-4 weeks from demolition to finish. Demolition: 1-2 days. Plumbing + electrical rough-in: 3-5 days. Tiling: 5-8 days. Fixtures + final: 2-3 days. We plan around your life — shower alternatives arranged when needed.

Yes. For collective boiler-room renovations we plan a phased switchover: keep the old boiler operational while we build the new cascade, then cut over in a single short window. If needed, temporary backup boilers are hired for the cutover period.

Yes for gas and oil boilers — legal obligation in Flanders, Brussels and Wallonia. Insurance refuses claims without valid certificate. For heat pumps, not legally required but strongly recommended to keep warranty valid.

As a Buderus System Partner, we can offer Buderus extended warranty on your installation — available as a paid option, on request. Not included by default.