FAQs
Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions
Preliminary notes
Here you can find answers to frequently asked questions. We consistently strive to give you access to all the information available on our products.
However, please understand that it is not possible to answer any technical questions about your heating system. To give you these answers, it is essential to perform an analysis of the problem on site. In such cases, please contact a qualified specialist installer.
FAQ categories
Good to know.
Interesting facts about our product range - without technical gobbledygook and without a product drawer.
What does "three-stage distribution" mean at KERMI?
KERMI sells its products exclusively via a three-tier distribution system. This means that
- KERMI supplies specialist wholesalers.
- The wholesaler supplies the specialist partner.
- The specialist partner plans, sells and installs the products for the end customer.
This ensures that you as a customer receive professional advice, planning and installation - directly from trained and qualified specialist companies. We do not sell directly to end customers.
How can I report a service case or submit a technical question?
Specialist partners can use special online forms on the website to report a service case, request an initial operation or ask technical questions (e.g. about the heat pump or residental ventilation). Alternatively, a service number is available.
How do I find a suitable specialist partner in my region?
With the KERMI specialist partner search , you can quickly and easily find qualified installers in your area.
Our authorised specialist partners are on hand to provide you with professional advice, careful planning and expert installation.
Can I buy spare parts directly from KERMI?
Yes, as a private customer you can order spare parts directly from the Kermi spare parts shop. There you will find a large selection of original parts for radiators, heating systems and ventilation technology. You also have the option of ordering spare parts from your specialist partner or installer if you need support with selection or installation.
Who can use the download centre?
The download centre is available to all users without registration. You can freely access installation instructions, brochures, technical data sheets and other documents at any time.
Where can I find installation and operating instructions?
KERMI offers a comprehensive download centre where you can find all important documents at a glance.
Whether installation and operating instructions, brochures and technical data sheets - the right documents are conveniently available in PDF format for all product areas.
Radiator
Should old radiators be replaced?
Yes, it often makes sense to replace old radiators. Outdated models often work inefficiently. They consume more energy and no longer provide the desired level of heating comfort. By replacing your radiators, you can significantly increase the efficiency of your heating system, save costs and improve your quality of living.
Is it possible to replace a classic radiator with a towel radiator?
In principle, replacement is possible without any problems. However, classic (flat) radiators usually have a side connection, which is why some towel radiators are more practical for this than others. Special renovation solutions such as the KERMI Basic-D, Casteo-D and Duett-D models are the most suitable for replacement.
What needs to be considered when replacing a bathroom radiator with a towel radiator?
First of all, the required heat output must be right. This depends on the size of the radiator. The connections must also be taken into account. The least effort is required here if existing connections can be used again. Purely electric radiators, which only require a socket for the connection, have also proven to be a good alternative, especially for localised heating requirements.
What do I need to consider if I want to replace my radiators with underfloor heating?
It is important that the heating surface is large enough to achieve the required heating capacity. If space is limited, it may be worth reducing the installation distance of the pipes or installing panel heating in the wall. It is also important to bear in mind when switching from radiators to underfloor heating: Radiators are usually operated with higher flow temperatures than underfloor heating systems. An adjustment should therefore be made here if necessary, as temperatures that are too high with underfloor heating are perceived as uncomfortable.
Can I operate a radiator with the heat pump?
Yes, this is possible without any problems! Modern heat pump radiators such as our X-Flair are specially designed to work efficiently with the low flow temperatures of a heat pump. Thanks to integrated fan technology, the heat is optimally manifolded in the room, resulting in fast and even heating. This allows you to enjoy a pleasant indoor climate and benefit from an energy-efficient heating system at the same time.
How do I find the right radiator?
Choosing the right radiator depends on various factors, such as the size of the room, the desired heating capacity and the heating system. Our guide will help you find the ideal radiator for your needs - whether for a new build or modernisation.
Can I give my old radiator a facelift?
Yes, with our upgrade sets you can give your old steel panel radiators a modern and stylish look in no time at all. The covers are manufactured to fit perfectly, can be fitted without drilling or screws and provide a quick and easy upgrade to your interior design. Thanks to the robust metal, they are durable and offer excellent thermal conductivity - a clear advantage over wooden or plastic panelling.
What is hydraulic balancing and what is it for?
Hydraulic balancing ensures that each radiator in a building receives exactly the quantity of heating water it needs to heat the respective room efficiently and evenly. The first step is to calculate the heating load for each room, i.e. the amount of heat required to reach the desired temperature. Factors such as room size, insulation, number of windows and outside temperature are included in this calculation. Based on the heating load, the optimum water volume required by each radiator is then determined in order to avoid over- or undersupply. The pre-settable thermostatic valves are then adjusted so that they let through exactly this calculated water volume. If necessary, the heating pump is adjusted or replaced with an energy-efficient high-efficiency pump to optimise the water pressure in the system and reduce energy consumption. In addition, hydraulic balancing can often lower the flow temperature of the heating system, which enables further energy savings. Without hydraulic balancing, the heating water usually flows along the path of least resistance, which means that radiators close to the pump are oversupplied and radiators further away are insufficiently heated. This leads to uneven heat distribution, unpleasant flow noise, overheated or cold rooms and increased energy consumption. Hydraulic balancing distributes the water flow according to demand, resulting in even heat distribution, improved living comfort, reduced noise and lower heating costs. In addition, it is often possible to receive subsidies for this measure. Overall, hydraulic balancing ensures efficient, comfortable and environmentally friendly heating.
What is a floor bracket for radiators?
A floor stand bracket for radiators is a specially developed bracket that allows the radiator to be fixed directly to the floor rather than to the wall and positioned free-standing. This is particularly practical in situations where wall mounting is not possible or not desired, for example in listed buildings, floor-to-ceiling windows or special room design requirements. The floor bracket provides a stable base and secure footing for the radiator, while at the same time offering more flexibility when positioning it in the room. Floor brackets specially developed for KERMI convectors consist of a base plate and a matching cover, which are designed like half-panels. This creates a hollow space in the centre in which connection pipes can be routed inconspicuously from the floor to the radiator. In addition, an opening in the base plate allows the installation of a thermostatic sensor head without the pipes being visible. Floor brackets thus combine functionality, stability and an attractive design that blends harmoniously into the room.
What does the requirement class mean for radiators?
The requirement class for radiators describes the loads that a radiator must be able to withstand at its place of use. It relates primarily to the fixing, stability and safety & security of the radiator and takes into account the various physical impacts that can occur in everyday life - from harmless support, sitting or climbing to high loads caused by crowds in special situations. Originally, there were four requirement classes, of which requirement class one was cancelled with the last directive, as it was almost never used in practice. It comprised typical residential and office areas in which no particular stresses are to be expected. Today, there are still three requirement classes, ranging from normal to very high requirements. The first class valid today (requirement class two) applies to publicly accessible areas such as sales rooms or stairwells where the radiator may occasionally be used carelessly. The third requirement class is aimed at places with high requirements, such as classrooms or escape routes, where radiators also serve as seating or must remain stable in panic situations. The fourth class is for very high requirements and special loads, such as those found in prisons or psychiatric facilities, and requires particularly robust fixing. The categorisation into requirement classes ensures that radiators are mounted safely and stably according to their environment in order to prevent damage and hazards caused by loads.
Which radiators are suitable for low flow temperatures?
As a rule, modern radiators already provide pleasant warmth in the home at low flow temperatures, as is typical for heat pumps. Modern radiators have a larger surface area, which enables a more even and better heat distribution. However, heat pump radiators are particularly efficient when operating at low flow temperatures. These are specially developed to ensure optimum heat dissipation even at lower temperatures. Heat pump radiators have integrated fans (blowers) that distribute the warm air more quickly in the room. These fans significantly increase convection, which more than doubles the air turnover and transfers heat much faster and more efficiently in the room. This efficient heat transfer results in high energy efficiency, a pleasant indoor climate and lower operating costs. One example of such a radiator is the x-flair heat pump steel panel radiators from KERMI. It combines the proven x2 technology with an integrated, fully automatic axial fan system that ensures rapid heating and effective heat distribution. The fans switch on and off as required and operate particularly quietly. The x-flair is ready to plug in and is suitable for both new builds and refurbishments. It also offers flexible connection possibilities and matches the look of other radiator versions from KERMI. This makes it ideal for the requirements of low flow temperatures.
Does the Vplus radiator no longer exist?
The KERMI therm-x2 Vplus steel panel radiators will be discontinued at the end of 2025. It will be replaced by the new KERMI therm-x2 Vmulti steel panel radiators. The Vmulti combines all connection versions of the previous Vplus versions in one model and also offers the option of swapping the valve from right to left. With six different connection possibilities, the Vmulti allows a high degree of flexibility, even when changing the type of connection on site at short notice, and full design freedom with maximum availability. The size and colour range remains identical to the previous Vplus product variety. This changeover applies equally to the respective x-flair version, meaning that the x-flair Vplus will be replaced by the x-flair Vmulti at the end of 2025, meaning that the extended connection possibilities and increased flexibility of the new model will also be available here.
What coatings are available to prevent rust?
Steel radiators can rust if the material comes into contact with air and water. As a rule, radiators are therefore coated with a priming and paint layer to prevent the penetration of moisture and oxygen. However, if the radiators are exposed to increased moisture in their range of applications, e.g. next to the bathtub or walk-in shower cubicles, KERMI also offers a special anti-corrosion coating. It is applied directly to the KERMI radiator and then finished with a high-quality powder coating. The paintwork can be applied in any desired shade.
For areas with particularly high anti-corrosion requirements, such as swimming pools, industrial plants or rooms that are regularly wet-cleaned, selected KERMI radiators are also available in a galvanised version. The hot-dip galvanising forms a resistant zinc coating that ensures optimum protection against rust even in damp or aggressive conditions.
What is window-open detection?
Window open detection is a function of heating or radiator controls that recognises the opening of a window and then temporarily lowers the setpoint temperature in the affected room by activating the antifreeze protection function. In this way, unnecessary heating with open windows can be avoided in order to save energy. If the window is closed, the system recognises the temperature increase and returns to the last set operating mode. Alternatively, the antifreeze protection function can also be cancelled manually by pressing a button. For window open detection, the control unit records various parameters such as the temperature setting, room temperature fluctuations, outdoor temperature and the installation location of the device.
How can a radiator be cleaned and which cleaning agents can be used?
Regular cleaning of the radiators is generally recommended. This prevents the accumulation of dust and dirt, which can impair heat output. Special radiator brushes, a hoover with a narrow attachment or a hairdryer are suitable for removing dust and loose dirt in hard-to-reach areas. Cleaning agents can be used for stubborn dirt. However, it is important to ensure that the agents used are not too aggressive in order to avoid damaging the radiator. For example, only mild, non-corrosive and non-abrasive cleaning agents and soft cleaning textiles should be used for painted surfaces, such as the KERMI therm-x2 steel panel radiators. The same applies to convectors and heating panels.
What is a radiation shield and what do I need it for?
If a radiator is installed in front of cold window surfaces or on poorly insulated walls, a radiation shield can be installed behind the radiator. This prevents the heat energy from being lost on the cold surfaces and instead returns the heat to the room by radiation. With the KERMI radiation shield, up to 80 % of heat loss can be avoided. The size of the radiation shield depends on the size of the radiator and is available in the entire KERMI colour spectrum, so that the radiator and radiation shield are a perfect visual match.
The KERMI radiation shield has a flat front and is supplied complete with fastening elements, making it easy to install directly on the steel panel radiators.
A special version with an integrated radiation shield is available for Kermi convectors.
Can a standard radiator be replaced with the KERMI x-flair heat pump radiator?
Yes, the replacement of a conventional standard radiator with the KERMI x-flair heat pump radiator is possible without any problems. As the lug positions are identical for both radiator types, the existing brackets can continue to be used in most cases. The existing connections can also generally be used 1:1. In addition, the x-flair only requires a power connection for the integrated fan system. This means that after converting the heating system to a heat pump, suitable x-flair radiators that are optimised for low flow temperatures can be installed easily and without major conversion work.
How does the E-Panel control work with KERMI and what settings can be made?
The KERMI E-Panel is operated via a control unit with a function display attached to the side of the radiator and offers three standard operating modes: comfort mode, eco mode, and antifreeze protection.
In comfort mode, the preset target temperature (e.g. 19 °C) is maintained around the clock and can be adjusted by the user. Eco mode automatically lowers the temperature by 3.5 °C compared to comfort mode, ideal for night-time reduction or short-term absence (2 to 24 hours). For longer absences (more than 5 days), the antifreeze protection function should be activated. It maintains a minimum temperature of 7 °C to prevent frost damage.
How are the heating cost recording devices installed on KERMI radiators?
Most KERMI design radiators and therm-x2 steel panel radiators are suitable for the installation of heat cost allocators or evaporation meters. The exact position and coupling factors depend on the specifications of the respective manufacturer of the recording devices and may vary. For correct installation, it is advisable to contact the installation service or the manufacturer of the heating cost recording device.
Please note for KERMI therm-x2: The serial flow achieves a higher average surface temperature. For types 12, 20, 22, 30 and 33, this may require repositioning of the heat cost allocators in order to record consumption correctly.
Why can a bench only be constructed with a frame bracket?
A bench can only be constructed using a frame bracket, as this provides the necessary stability and loading capacity to safely support the weight of the bench and the people sitting on it. Frame brackets are particularly robust fixings for KERMI convectors. They can be used either as soil stand brackets under the convector or additionally above the convector as a base frame for a bench. To create a stable and load-bearing structure for the installation of the bench, both consoles are connected with long threaded rods.
How does therm-x2 technology work and which radiators feature it?
KERMI's patented x2 technology is based on the serial flow through multi-layer flat steel panel radiators, whereby the front panel is first flowed through by the warm flow water before the rear panels follow.
In normal operation, heating the front panel is sufficient: the heat is thus transferred directly to the room via the front panel. This ensures up to 100% higher radiation component and a pleasant indoor climate. When the heat demand increases, the rear panels are also activated, contributing to rapid room heating with high convection output. This results in heating periods that are up to 25% shorter.
Overall, the targeted water flow of x2 technology results in a shorter heating cycle, shorter operating times and the factory-preset kv valve closes more quickly. This enables energy saving of up to 11%.
All multi-layer KERMI flat radiators are equipped with x2 technology as standard. Exceptions are single-layer steel panel radiators (as they only have one panel) and KERMI E-Panel radiators, which are exclusively electric and therefore operate without water flow.
Why does the Kermi clip no longer say therm-x2?
Originally, a special KERMI x2 clip was used for the market launch of serial flow-through technology in order to make the x2 technology visible. Since all multi-layer flat steel panel radiators are now equipped with this technology as standard, separate labelling on the clip is no longer necessary.
Single-layer steel panel radiators and the KERMI E-Panel electric models, which operate without water flow, are excluded from x2 technology.
How does dry cooling work and which KERMI thermostatic sensor head can be used for this purpose?
Dry cooling means that rooms are cooled without condensation forming. Cold water is generated in the heat pump by reversing the refrigerant cycle. This water is fed through special heat pump radiators that have integrated fans. The cold water extracts heat from the room via the heating or cooling surface of the radiator, while the fan distributes the cool air evenly without creating condensation. At KERMI, this form of cooling is possible with the x-flair heat pump radiator, which requires a thermostatic sensor head with K setting from the KERMI product range.
How loud is the x-flair heat pump radiator from KERMI?
Noise emissions are generated during operation of the x-flair heat pump radiator by its integrated fans. However, these operate very quietly at a noise level of only around 28.5 decibels. Thanks to the combination of sound-optimised fans and integrated sound decoupling, the x-flair is quieter than a whisper and therefore barely audible, even when heat demands fluctuate.
Heat pump
How does a heat pump work, simply explained?
A heat pump absorbs free environmental energy from the surroundings. In a refrigerant circuit, the temperature is increased by compression and then transferred to the heating system.
How well does a heat pump work in cold winters?
The heat pump principle consisting of heat absorption, heat compression, heat transfer and expansion also works in cold winters and provides sufficient heat in the rooms. However, the more the absorbed environmental energy has to be increased, the more the refrigerant in the heat pump has to be compressed. This increases electricity consumption somewhat. However, this is usually only the case on a few days a year when temperatures fall well below 0 degrees.
Does a heat pump work as air conditioning and heating?
A heat pump is first and foremost an environmentally friendly heating solution. But it can also be used to cool the building comfortably in summer. It extracts heat from the rooms and dissipates it to the outside. This effectively lowers the temperature inside the house. Compared to an air conditioning system, there is no draught.
At what temperature does an air source heat pump work?
Air source heat pumps generally work at all temperatures, but their efficiency decreases as the outside air temperature falls. The outdoor temperatures at which a heat pump works efficiently can be recognised by the addition of the COP value: COP 4.96 (A2/W35) means, for example, that at an outside temperature of 2 degrees and a flow temperature of 35 degrees, a very high coefficient of performance of 4.96 is achieved. This means that one kW of electricity generates 4.96 kW of heating energy.
How do I find the right heat pump?
Choosing the right heat pump depends on several factors, including
- Building type & insulation: new buildings often require less heating capacity than unrenovated old buildings.
- Heat source: Air, ground or groundwater - there are different options depending on the location and space available.
- Heating system: Underfloor heating or radiators? Heat pumps work particularly efficiently with panel heating.
- Hot water requirement: Households with higher hot water consumption require a more powerful solution.
- Funding opportunities: In many cases, there are government subsidies for installing a heat pump.
Whether air-to-water, brine / water heat pumps or water-to-water heat pumps - our guide will help you find the optimum solution for your home.
How can I optimise my own consumption with the heat pump?
To maximise the self-consumption of your self-generated energy, e.g. from a photovoltaic system, the heat pump can be specifically integrated into the energy management system. An electricity storage unit helps to store surplus solar power and use it to operate the heat pump. In this way, you reduce the amount of electricity drawn from the grid, lower your energy costs and increase the efficiency of your heating system.
Cooling with a heat pump - is that possible?
Yes, a heat pump can not only heat, but also cool. In the warm months, it extracts heat from the room and releases it into the environment. This works either via panel heating systems such as underfloor or wall heating or via special heat pump radiators. This allows you to enjoy a pleasant indoor climate all year round - efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way.
Can I still install an oil heating system after 2025?
Yes, the installation of oil heating systems is still possible after 2025 under certain conditions, but different deadlines apply depending on the size of the city: In cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants, installation is permitted until 30 June 2026 at the latest, in smaller cities until 30 June 2028. A consultation regarding the economic efficiency must take place before installation in the existing building.
After 2026, oil heating systems may only be installed if they utilise a certain proportion of renewable energies, according to the provisions of the Building Energy Act (GEG).
From 2029, there will also be a gradual switch to so-called "green heating oil" - heating oil that contains a proportion of biogenic raw materials such as vegetable oils or used fats. Oil heating systems installed after mid-2026 (or 2028) must be operated with at least 65 per cent green heating oil from the outset.
In view of these requirements and, above all, for ecological reasons, it makes sense to (fully) switch to renewable energies now.
Do I have to replace an old oil heating system?
The Building Energy Act (GEG) of 2024 does not prescribe the general replacement of oil heating systems. However, replacement is mandatory for oil heating systems with an output of between 4 and 400 kW that are more than 30 years old and use constant temperature technology. The chimney sweep determines this obligation and informs the owner. There are exceptions for owners of detached and semi-detached houses who lived in the house before 1 February 2002 - the replacement obligation does not apply here. In the event of a change of ownership after this date, the new owner has two years to replace the old oil heating system. Oil heating systems that were installed before 1 January 2024 and do not fall under the replacement obligation are protected until the end of 2044 and may continue to be operated and repaired. Oil boilers with modern condensing or low-temperature technology are exempt from the replacement obligation. However, switching to renewable energies not only makes sense from an ecological point of view, but is also financially supported by various subsidy programmes.
Does it make sense to install a new oil heating system now?
Although a new oil heating system with modern condensing technology is more efficient than older models, it is not very sustainable in the long term. The Building Energy Act (GEG) increasingly restricts the use of fossil fuelled heating systems: Oil-only heating systems are already no longer being installed in new builds, while minimum proportions of bio heating oil will apply to existing buildings from 2029, rising to 60% by 2040. Oil heating systems will be completely banned from 2045. There are also many other reasons not to install them: oil heating systems cause higher CO₂ emissions and particulate matter, are dependent on fluctuating oil prices and rising CO₂ taxes, require space for the oil tank and are no longer subsidised. In the long term, this can have a negative impact on property value. This is why switching to renewable heating systems is usually the more sensible and sustainable choice.
What does COP mean for heat pumps?
The coefficient of performance of a heat pump is also called COP (coefficient of performance) and is an important indicator of efficiency. The COP value always refers to a defined operating point and describes the ratio of electrical power consumed to heat output delivered. A COP value of 4.96 (A2/W35) for an air/water heat pump means, for example, that at an air temperature of 2°C (=A2) and a flow temperature of 35°C (=W35), 1 kW of electrical energy produces 4.96 kW of heating capacity. In principle, therefore, the higher the COP value, the more efficiently the heat pump works and the less electricity it requires to operate.
Does a heat pump make sense in an old building?
Yes, heat pumps are also a sensible and environmentally friendly heating solution for old buildings. They utilise free energy from the air, water or earth, making you independent of rising oil and gas prices. However, in order for the heat pump to work efficiently in an old building, a few requirements must be met: Good insulation of the roof, façade and windows is important to minimise heat loss. It should also be checked whether the existing radiators can provide the desired level of heating comfort even with the lower temperatures of the heat pump. Replacing the old radiators with special, particularly efficient heat pump radiators may make sense here.
Can I operate a heat pump with radiators?
Heat pumps can also be operated with modern (flat) radiators without any problems. The flow temperature - i.e. the temperature to which the water is heated before it enters the heating circuit - is crucial for efficient operation. Heat pumps work particularly efficiently at low flow temperatures. For this reason, radiators should be used that bring the desired thermal comfort into the rooms at such low temperatures. Older radiators often do not achieve this and should be replaced with modern radiators. Special heat pump radiators, which are optimised to the requirements of the heat pump and thus enable maximum efficiency, are particularly effective.
What needs to be prepared structurally for the installation of a heat pump?
The structural requirements for the installation site differ depending on the type of heat pump. Air-to-water heat pumps are the easiest to install. A stable substrate should be available for outdoor installation. Devices for indoor installation require a room, e.g. in the basement, that has load-bearing capacity and is well ventilated.
Brine / water heat pumps, on the other hand, require geothermal collectors to be laid over a large area or geothermal probes to be installed at depth. This requires either a large, unsealed area (collectors) or a soil expertise (probes). For water-to-water heat pumps, two wells must be drilled to transport the groundwater to the heat pump. As a rule, this access must be authorised.
Due to these structural preparations, brine / water heat pumps are usually more suitable for new buildings or major refurbishments, while air / water heat pumps are also suitable for retrofitting existing buildings.
Do I need a licence for a heat pump?
Whether a permit is required depends on the type of heat pump. Air-to-water heat pumps and brine / water heat pumps with geothermal collectors generally do not require a permit, as no deep drilling into the groundwater is necessary. With air-to-water heat pumps, however, attention should be paid to the distance to the neighbouring property, as the devices can cause noise during operation.
For water-to-water heat pumps, on the other hand, a permit is required as deep drilling is required and groundwater is used. The regulations vary depending on the federal state. It is therefore important to obtain information in advance from the relevant water authority and the geological service.
Can I combine a heat pump with photovoltaics?
A combination of heat pumps and photovoltaic systems is not only easily possible, but also makes sense. Heat pumps require electricity to operate. By combining them with photovoltaic systems, they can be operated with self-generated, green electricity in a way that conserves resources and saves costs. The x-change dynamic heat pumps from KERMI enable the intelligent use of PV electricity to generate heat on demand thanks to the built-in power-to-heat function. The heat generated is stored in a heat storage unit and is then available when needed.
Residental ventilation
Which residental ventilation system is right for me?
Choosing the right residental ventilation system depends on various factors such as the size of the house, the number of people in the household and the desired energy efficiency. Our various ventilation models offer solutions for every need - from simple decentralised ventilation to more complex systems with heat recovery. Use our guide to find the system that best suits your home and your requirements.
Where can I buy new filters for residental ventilation?
You can conveniently purchase new filters for your residental ventilation system from our KERMI spare parts shop or from your specialist partner. This way, you can ensure that your ventilation system is always equipped with suitable, high-quality filters.