Philipp Reinhard - © Philipp Reinhard, 2016Electronic heat cost allocators function based on the precise measurement of radiator temperature. They enable consumption-based billing and transmit the data wirelessly. The devices offer high measurement accuracy, are tamper-proof, and will be legally required from the end of 2026 – even in existing buildings.
What are electronic heat cost allocators – and how do they work?
Electronic Heat cost allocator These are modern metering devices that register the heat consumption of individual radiators. They are increasingly replacing older evaporative meters and offer clear advantages:
- High measuring accuracy
- No cold evaporation or summer displays
- Accurate consumption recording on a specific date
- Wireless transmission without entering the apartment
Unlike traditional measuring devices, electronic heat cost allocators are not subject to mandatory calibration. They record relative consumption values, on the basis of which the total costs are distributed proportionally.
Digital advantages: Deadline recording & radio frequency
Modern devices record consumption data on a fixed date each year. This makes things easier:
- Reliable annual statements
- Comparison with the previous year
- Flexibility in meter reading time
Integrated wireless technology eliminates the need for physical access to the apartment. Data is transmitted remotely – convenient for tenants, efficient for property managers.
nikkimeel – stock.adobe.com /Implementing the interim consumption information (uVI): With the B.One eMonitoring
The digital tool simplifies administration, increases energy efficiency and thus supports compliance with legal requirements.
Legal framework: Radio communication becomes mandatory
Since 2021, only remotely readable devices may be installed in new buildings. And from End 2026 This also applies: All existing buildings must be equipped with Wireless heat cost allocators be equipped.
This means:
- No more evaporative devices from 2027 onwards.
- Mandatory provision of interim consumption information
- Valid for landlords and homeowners' associations
Technical basics: How the devices record consumption
Electronic heat cost allocators use temperature sensors to measure the heat output of a radiator. There are various device designs available:
Probe devices
- Only measure the radiator temperature on the back
- Optional additional sensor for the start logic on the front.
- Suitable for medium to high heating temperatures
Dual-sensor devices
- Measure radiator and room temperature
- Do they offer more accurate consumption figures for low-temperature systems?
No longer in use: Three-sensor devices
- Previously, flow and return temperatures were also recorded.
- Today it is economically and technically obsolete
The choice of device depends on the design temperature of the heating system. Below 55 °C, dual-sensor devices are mandatory, for example with underfloor heating or modern low-temperature radiators.
Display methods for electronic heat cost allocators
All electronic heat cost allocators on the market also differ in the way in which the consumption reading is recorded and displayed:
- Decentralized displays without radio transmission These devices display the consumption of each radiator directly on the unit. Each heat cost allocator must be read on-site by a service technician at least once a year. Such systems must be replaced by wireless heat cost allocators by the end of 2026 at the latest.
- Displays transmitted via radio Meter readings can be taken from outside the apartment using a suitable receiver. This state-of-the-art transmission method offers residents exceptional convenience. With wireless meter readings, it's no longer necessary to let the meter reader into the apartment. Consumption data is read remotely. Wireless transmission is now available from all leading manufacturers and represents the system of the future. Wireless meter reading isn't limited to electronic heat cost allocators – water and heat meters can also be retrofitted with this technology.
- Central Displays Wired systems allow for the display of heat cost allocators at a central location, either inside or outside the apartment. Due to the high installation costs, wired systems have now been largely replaced by wireless systems.
Suitability and approval of the various heating measurement systems depending on the heating water distribution system
Which types of heat cost allocators are technically suitable depends on the design temperature of the heating medium and the distribution method of the heating water. Modern electronic wireless heat cost allocators are generally suitable for all conditions. Existing heat cost allocators must be replaced by the end of 2026 according to the [relevant regulation/standard]. Evaporation principle according to the specifications of Heating Costs Ordinance generally to be retrofitted with wireless heat cost allocators.
avirid – stock.adobe.comHorizontal single-pipe heating system
All metering systems are suitable. Evaporative heat cost allocators and Heat meter However, this only applies if the pipework does not extend beyond a single unit. If the pipework extends beyond a single unit, only electronic heat cost allocators can be used.
Vertical two-pipe heating system
Evaporative heat cost allocators (until the end of 2026 at the latest) and electronic heat cost allocators are suitable. Heat meters cannot be used here because there is no central supply and return line for the individual apartment.
Vertical single-pipe heating system with top distribution
Commonly found in standardized prefabricated apartment buildings in the eastern German states. Electronic heat cost allocators are used, but since 1995, evaporative heat cost allocators have also been permitted, at least until the end of 2026.
When electronic heat cost allocators are the only option
In certain cases, the use of electronic heat cost allocators is already mandatory today:
- Low-temperature heating systems (< 55 °C)
- Horizontal single-pipe systems with user overlap
Evaporative devices are technically unsuitable here because they cannot react correctly to the temperature conditions.
Conclusion: Electronic heat cost allocators are the future of consumption recording.
Electronic heat cost allocators offer many advantages: high accuracy, fair billing procedure, no influence from external factors – and with wireless technology, they are also particularly convenient.
Landlords and owners should plan the conversion early., in order to be legally compliant and economically viable.
Jacob Ammentorp Lund – stock.adobe.comUpgrade to radio now!
With the LoRaWAN radio system Brunata Minol Connect, you create the basis for digital heating cost billing.
This is how landlords and property managers can collect consumption data securely, digitally and transparently.
InsideCreativeHouse – AdobestockAlways up to date
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