You're building new and facing the question: Which heating system should go in the house? Gas heating, heat pump, or a hybrid system? In 2026, the framework conditions have completely changed, away from fossil fuels, towards renewable energies.
In this guide, we compare the systems, calculate the costs, and show you how to create a heating concept that lasts 20 years.
Since 2024, the Building Energy Law (GEG) applies, which is being gradually tightened. In 2026, new builds must be operated with 65% renewable energies. This means in practice:
Verdict: A heat pump is the safest choice for new builds in 2026, both regulatory and economically.
| Heating System | Investment (150m²) | Annual Operating Costs | Funding 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air-water heat pump | €22,000–€30,000 | €1,200–€1,500 | KfW 270: up to 70% |
| Gas heating + PV | €15,000–€20,000 | €2,500–€3,200 | Low (only KfW 211) |
| Hybrid (HP + Gas) | €25,000–€32,000 | €1,800–€2,200 | KfW 270: up to 50% |
| District heating (connection) | €10,000–€15,000 | €2,000–€2,800 | None |
Before buying a heating system, you must precisely calculate the heating load of your new build. DIN EN 12831 is the standard here. An energy consultant creates the heating load calculation (costs: €500-800), which is often a funding requirement.
Rule of thumb for well-insulated new builds (KfW-40 standard): 50-70 watts per m². For 150 m², this means a heating load of 7.5-10.5 kW. A 9-kW heat pump would be sufficient here.
Warning: If you choose a heat pump too small, it runs at the limit in winter and loses efficiency (COP drops). If chosen too large, it operates too often in part-load mode, also inefficient.
Use our heat pump cost calculator to precisely determine the investment costs for your new build, including KfW and BAFA funding.
1. Wrong sizing: In new builds, a smaller heat pump is often sufficient than in old buildings.
2. Neglecting underfloor heating: Heat pumps need large heating surfaces (low flow temperature, ideally 35°C).
3. Forgetting PV system: The combination heat pump + photovoltaics is a no-brainer in new builds.
4. Underestimating buffer storage: A 300-500 liter buffer storage makes the heat pump more efficient.
5. Submitting funding applications too late: KfW funding must be applied for BEFORE construction begins!
The good news: in a new build with KfW-40 standard, the choice is manageable because the heating load is low. The rule of thumb of 50 to 70 watts per m² means a heating load of 7.5 to 10.5 kW for 150 m², and a 9 kW air-water heat pump is completely sufficient for that. It fully meets the GEG's 65% rule and stays below the purchase price of a hybrid solution.
If you have a large plot and are planning the earthworks anyway, a ground-source heat pump can lower running costs further. District heating is attractive where the network is right at your doorstep, but prices vary greatly by region. A pure gas heating system is practically out of the question in 2026, because it does not meet the 65% rule and no longer receives funding. If you still rely on gas, at least 35% of the heating load must be covered otherwise, for example through photovoltaics.
❓ Can I still install gas heating in a new build?
Yes, but only in combination with renewable energies so that 65% of energy demand is covered by renewables. Pure fossil gas heating systems are effectively banned in new builds from 2026.
❓ Is a heat pump worth it in a new build without funding?
Yes. Due to high energy efficiency (COP 3-4) and low operating costs, the heat pump pays for itself after 10-12 years even without funding. With KfW funding, amortization drops to 6-8 years.
❓ Should I do the installation myself?
No. Heat pump installation is subject to skilled trades regulations. You need certified installers for KfW funding eligibility.