The most common mistakes when choosing a heating system

Choosing the right heating system for your home or office is a key factor for long-term comfort and savings. However, many users make common mistakes that lead to additional costs, reduced efficiency, and even the need to replace the equipment. In this article, we will look at the most frequent mistakes when selecting and installing a heating system, so you can avoid them successfully.

Lack of an individual approach to the space

Each room has its own specifics – square footage, ceiling height, thermal insulation, sun exposure, number and type of windows, as well as its function (bedroom, living room, bathroom, office, etc.). All of these factors directly influence the choice of a suitable heating system. For example, the same system may be ideal for a well-insulated bedroom, but completely ineffective for a large open-plan living area with French windows.
Another important element is the climate zone where the property is located – different regions have varying intensity and duration of the winter season. This factor should also be considered when choosing a heating solution.

Furthermore, attention should be paid to future plans for using the room – will it be occupied permanently or only during certain periods? This will help determine whether local heating (like convectors or stoves) or a central heating system that serves the entire property is more appropriate.
A common mistake is choosing an overly powerful appliance, thinking "better safe than sorry." In fact, this leads to higher expenses, lower efficiency, and more frequent cycling of the system, which wears it out faster.

Tip: Make a detailed assessment of the rooms – measure the square footage, pay attention to insulation, and check for cold zones. Consult with our specialists at BalkanEnergy.CO.UK, where you’ll not only find a wide range of heating solutions but also receive professional advice tailored to your specific needs and budget. This will ensure higher efficiency and comfort throughout the heating season.

Underestimating the installation

No matter how good and high-performing your chosen heating system is, poor installation can completely compromise its operation. This is one of the most common mistakes that lead to uneven heating, noise, rapid component wear, and even serious damage. A poorly installed heating system may not meet safety standards, pose risks to the household, and significantly increase maintenance and repair costs in the long run.
Many users underestimate this stage and try to save money by trusting unqualified technicians or even attempting the installation themselves without the necessary experience. This is especially common when purchasing appliances from an online store, where the customer must organize the installation on their own.

What can go wrong with poor installation?

• Incorrect sizing of the system – leads to poor efficiency or excessive energy consumption.

• Poor insulation of the pipes – leads to heat loss and higher expenses.

• Improper placement of radiators  or heating units – creates "cold zones" in the room.

• Errors in hydraulic balancing – lead to uneven heat distribution.

• Lack of testing and checks after installation – often leaves hidden problems that only emerge over time.

Tip: Always use licensed professionals for the installation of your heating system. Professionals will not only ensure proper installation but also provide information on the optimal placement of devices, the need for additional components (like regulators, pipes, valves, etc.), and advice for future maintenance.
BalkanEnergy.CO.UK works with trusted partners and can connect you with certified installers, even when you've made your purchase online. This way, you’ll be sure your system will operate safely, efficiently, and without unnecessary costs in the future.

Incorrect cost assessment

One of the most significant mistakes users make when choosing a heating system is focusing on the low initial price without considering the long-term costs. This includes not only electricity, gas, or pellet bills, but also the costs of maintenance, cleaning, consumables, spare parts, and potential repairs.

For example, a cheap electric convector may seem like a good deal, but if used daily in a large room, the monthly electricity costs can exceed those of a more expensive but more efficient pellet stove or heat pump.

In addition, the lack of automation options, remote control, or a programmable thermostat can lead to inefficient energy usage, which also negatively affects the budget. Maintenance should also not be underestimated – some systems require regular servicing, filter replacements, or cleaning, which, if neglected, can reduce the appliance’s lifespan and increase repair costs.

Common misconceptions:

• “I'll choose the cheapest appliance, it will be cheaper overall.” – cheap appliances often have low efficiency and high energy consumption. This results in significantly higher bills and more frequent servicing needs.

• “This appliance doesn’t require maintenance.” – almost every heating system, even the most modern, requires regular maintenance – such as filter replacements, cleaning the combustion chamber, electronics checks, and more.

• “The installation cost is separate, I’ll do it myself.” – this is risky and often leads to greater expenses in the future, especially if the installation is incorrect and voids the warranty.

What to include in the cost assessment:

• Device price + installation

• Monthly energy costs (electricity, gas, pellets, etc.)

• Maintenance and servicing – at least once a year

• Consumables – filters, cleaning, spare parts

• System lifespan
  Potential savings through automation (thermostats, timers, etc.)

• Warranty conditions and servicing

Tip: Evaluate the heating system as a long-term investment, not just a purchase. Compare not only the brands and power, but also the actual annual costs, the possibilities for more efficient use, as well as warranty and maintenance conditions. You’ll find all of this in our wide range at BalkanEnergy.CO.UK – a trusted online store for heating, home, and garden.

Neglecting maintenance and cleaning

One of the most common mistakes users make after choosing a heating system is underestimating the importance of regular maintenance and cleaning. Even the highest quality heating system can significantly lose its efficiency if not properly maintained.

Over time, components of the system—whether it’s wood burning fireplaces, wood burning stoves, boilers, or radiators—accumulate dust, soot, and deposits that hinder normal operation and increase energy consumption. In some cases, a lack of cleaning can even lead to malfunctions or fire hazards.

Additionally, with water-based heating systems, skipping annual maintenance can cause clogs, leaks, and uneven heat distribution. Filters in air conditioning systems or heat pumps must also be cleaned or replaced regularly to ensure quality airflow and a healthy indoor environment.

What does good heating system maintenance include?

• Annual inspection by a specialist – Even if everything seems fine, a specialist may detect early signs of issues that could lead to higher costs if neglected.

• Cleaning of heat exchangers and combustion chambers – In solid fuel boilers and wood burning stoves, soot and residue buildup lowers efficiency and increases the risk of incidents.

• Inspection of seals, connections, and sensors – Leaks or poorly functioning sensors can reduce efficiency or even damage the entire system.

• Bleeding of radiators – A simple yet often forgotten step. Air in the system interferes with proper circulation and causes cold spots in the room.

• Replacing filters (for air conditioners and heat pumps) – Clogged filters increase electricity consumption and may affect air quality.
   

What are the risks of skipping maintenance?

• Expensive repairs and replacement of equipment

• Increased monthly heating costs

• Reduced efficiency and uneven heating throughout the space

• Potential fire hazard or carbon monoxide poisoning (especially with solid fuel appliances)

• Shorter lifespan of the heating system

Tip: Create a schedule for regular maintenance and cleaning based on the manufacturer's recommendations. In our online store BalkanEnergy.CO.UK you will find useful products and accessories that make it easier to care for your heating system – from brushes and cleaners to spare parts. Investing in regular maintenance will extend the life of your system, improve its efficiency, and reduce long-term costs.

Unrealistic expectations about efficiency

Many users expect their new heating system to provide instant and even heating in every room, regardless of the outside temperature, insulation, or building specifics. This often leads to poor choices and disappointment with the actual results.

The truth is that the efficiency of any heating system depends on many factors – the type of heating (wood burning stove, boiler, heat pump, air conditioner, radiator, etc.), proper installation, home insulation, and even how the system is used by the user. For example, an efficient heat pump will only work at maximum capacity in a well-insulated room with regular maintenance.

Additionally, some customers fail to account for the time it takes to reach the desired temperature or do not consider that heat distribution may vary in different parts of the home. This is often the result of improper system configuration or underestimating the need for additional elements such as fans, programmers, or automatic thermostats.

Additional aspects of unrealistic efficiency expectations

• Ignoring regional climate conditions – Users often fail to consider the local climate. Efficiency is relative and must align with actual temperature conditions.

• Unrealistic expectations from “Eco” solutions – Biomass, pellets, solar panels, and heat pumps are advertised as “green choices” – and they are. But that doesn’t mean they’re always the best fit. For example, if you don’t have good insulation and system automation, the heat pump won’t work as efficiently as expected. A realistic calculation of cost, investment, and expected savings is necessary.

• Lack of an integrated solution – Some users choose only one heating system without considering the option of combining solutions – for example, a heat pump for primary heating and a wood burning stove with a back boiler for additional warmth and coziness. Integrating different systems can increase efficiency and reduce costs.

• Lack of automation and control – Another common mistake is ignoring automated thermostats and programmable controllers. These not only optimize system performance but also contribute to lower costs and improved comfort.

Tip: To have realistic expectations, always align your choice with the property’s characteristics and the heating goals – whether you're looking for full heating or supplementary warmth during transitional seasons. Consult our experts at BalkanEnergy.CO.UK, where you’ll receive professional advice and find the optimal solution for your needs and budget.

Common mistakes when choosing specific heating appliances

Radiators (water-based, aluminum, panel, etc.)

Mistakes:

• Choosing a radiator based solely on appearance, without considering the required heating output.

• Radiators that are too small for large rooms → Insufficient heating.

• Incorrect placement – for example, behind furniture or curtains → heat output is blocked.

• Lack of thermostatic valves → no control over temperature and energy consumption.

Tip:
Calculate the required power (W) based on room size and insulation. For maximum efficiency, use thermostatic valves and regularly bleed your radiators.
Check out our radiators for central heating.

Air conditioning (split systems, inverter ACs)

Mistakes:

• Choosing an air conditioner with a low energy efficiency class → results in high electricity bills.

• Installing the unit in an unsuitable location – near windows or on a wall exposed to drafts.

• Neglecting regular maintenance – dirty filters = lower efficiency and polluted air.

• Using an AC without a thermostat or timer → inefficient temperature regulation.

Tip:
Choose inverter air conditioners with energy class A++ or higher. Suitable for well-insulated spaces and transitional seasons. Keep filters clean and use automatic modes.
Browse our energy-efficient air conditioners.

Heat pumps (air-to-air, air-to-water)

Mistakes:

• Overestimating efficiency in cold climates → COP drops in sub-zero temperatures.

• Lack of a buffer tank or additional heat source → unstable performance during peak demand.

• Installing in poorly insulated buildings → energy loss and high bills.

• Ignoring the noise level of the outdoor unit – important in apartments and urban areas.

Tip:
Choose heat pumps with a high COP even at low outdoor temperatures. Suitable for new constructions or well-insulated properties. Combine with underfloor heating or low-temperature radiators for maximum efficiency.
See our selection of air-to-water heat pumps and hybrid systems.

Choosing the right heating system is not just a matter of taste or price – it’s a long-term decision that directly affects your comfort, energy efficiency, and monthly expenses. Making common mistakes during selection, installation, cleaning, and maintenance can lead to inconvenience, extra costs, and inefficient system performance.

To make the best choice for your space – whether it's an apartment, house, or office – we recommend being well-informed and relying on professionals. In our online store BalkanEnergy.CO.UK, you will find a wide range of reliable heating solutions, including boilers, stoves, heat pumps, water heaters, and accessories – everything you need for an efficient, comfortable, and economical home.

Don’t compromise on quality. Make an informed choice with the help of BalkanEnergy.CO.UK – Your partner for heating, home, and garden