Heat pumps are seen as the future solution for Germany to free itself from Russian gas. However, the installation and costs of a heat pump are extremely high, and it is often not possible to convert an apartment at all, as conversions to the house first have to go through a lengthy process. An American start-up has the solution, which in a modified form could also be of interest to Germany.
The gradient heat pump is simply hung in the window
Millions of homes in Germany heat with gas and should get rid of it. Heat pumps are the solution, but not everyone can afford or even carry out the expensive conversion. This requires extensive renovation work on the building. A US start-up has found a solution. Gradient has developed a heat pump that is simply hung from the window. Just like with a real heat pump or split air conditioner, the compressor is outside and the other cooling or heating part is inside.
The gradient heat pump is controlled by a small rotary wheel or an app. So you can regulate the heat or cold from anywhere. No major conversion work required. If you move, you can simply take the heat pump with you. The cost point is 1999 US dollars.if you do the installation yourself (look at the gradient).
A balcony power plant can supply a lot of power for your home:
Is that something for Germany?
Of course, the Gradient heat pump is not designed for Germany, because we install other windows. However, the idea of commissioning clearly shows that the classic installation of a heat pump in the house or apartment is not set in stone. When millions of homes have to switch from gas to heat pumps, more and more smart people will find ways to retrofit them into an existing building. Fan heaters are not a solution:
Split air conditioners are one such method. They cost relatively little (look amazon) and are basically super efficient air-to-air heat pumps that can not only be used for cooling, but also for heating. But even then, the installation is not that easy. The idea of Gradient is already going in the right direction. There will surely be some more innovations in this area in the future.