Installing a heating system is an important investment in comfort and energy efficiency. However, many homeowners make common mistakes when installing heating systems that reduce performance and increase energy costs. In this guide, we’ll explain the most frequent errors and how to avoid them to create a warmer, more sustainable home.
1. Failing to assess your home’s real needs
One of the most frequent mistakes when installing heating is starting the process without an energy study. Each property has different characteristics—orientation, insulation, surface area, window type and occupancy. Installing the same system in every home without prior analysis often leads to poor efficiency and higher bills.
Before choosing a system, it’s essential to carry out an energy and thermal analysis to determine the required power, the most suitable emitters and the main heat loss points. This ensures the installation is properly sized and avoids costly over- or under-dimensioning.
2. Choosing a system based only on price
Many homeowners decide based solely on the purchase price rather than long-term efficiency. Selecting a cheaper system can seem like a good idea at first, but it often results in higher energy consumption.
Efficient heating systems such as aerothermal heat pumps or underfloor heating provide excellent performance, lower emissions and can reduce consumption by up to 30 %. They also improve your home’s energy rating and overall sustainability.
Always prioritise efficiency and total running cost over the initial investment.
3. Ignoring insulation before installation
Even the most efficient system won’t perform well if the home isn’t properly insulated. One of the biggest mistakes when installing heating systems is overlooking the building envelope.
Before installation, check insulation quality, window seals and thermal bridges. Improving insulation can cut heat losses by up to 25 %. A well-insulated home requires less power and keeps heat longer.
4. Incorrect system sizing
Improper sizing is a technical error that can seriously affect comfort and efficiency. An oversized system cycles on and off frequently, consuming more and shortening its lifespan. An undersized system will never reach the desired temperature.
The heating system must be sized by a certified professional who evaluates heat load and adapts the capacity to the property’s needs. Avoid “rule-of-thumb” calculations based only on square metres.
5. Placing radiators or emitters in the wrong locations
Placement matters. One of the most common mistakes when installing heating is putting radiators behind furniture or curtains, blocking heat flow and creating cold zones.
Radiators should be installed on exterior walls or below windows to compensate for heat loss. For underfloor systems, careful design planning avoids uneven temperatures or excessive heat concentration.
6. Not including thermostatic valves or smart controls
Another frequent mistake is skipping thermostatic valves or zoning controls. These devices allow temperature regulation in each room and can save up to 15 % in energy use.
Modern smart systems let you control your heating remotely or set daily schedules. Investing in automation is one of the simplest ways to improve efficiency and comfort.
7. Forgetting regular maintenance
Many homeowners assume a new system doesn’t need maintenance—until something goes wrong. Neglecting maintenance leads to reduced efficiency and premature breakdowns.
Annual preventive maintenance ensures safety, prevents leaks or blockages and extends equipment life. At Karma Clima, we recommend a complete check-up before winter to guarantee optimal performance.
8. Hiring non-qualified installers
Among all common mistakes when installing heating systems, hiring unqualified personnel can be the most expensive. Poor installation or incorrect system setup can cause inefficiency or even safety issues.
Working with certified professionals ensures a safe, compliant and efficient installation. At Karma Clima, our accredited technicians deliver reliable, long-lasting results using top-quality materials.
9. Skipping hydraulic balancing
Hydraulic balancing guarantees that hot water circulates evenly through all radiators. Ignoring this step causes some rooms to overheat while others stay cold.
A properly balanced system consumes less energy and provides uniform thermal comfort throughout the house. This adjustment must be made during commissioning by a trained technician.
10. Overlooking renewable energy options
In the current energy transition, not considering renewable sources is a missed opportunity. Heat pumps, solar panels and hybrid systems significantly reduce energy dependence and emissions.
When planning a renovation or new installation, explore renewable options. Besides saving money, you may qualify for grants and increase your property’s energy rating.
11. Conclusion: proper planning makes the difference
Avoiding common mistakes when installing heating systems is key to achieving lasting comfort and energy savings. Analyse your needs, work with professionals and choose efficient, sustainable technology. A well-executed installation is an investment that pays off year after year.
At Karma Clima, we guide each client from design to maintenance, ensuring every system operates at peak efficiency and reliability.
