Modern hybrid heating and cooling systems for large buildings
Energy-efficient, sustainable and fully configurable — ideal for industrial and commercial applications.
What are hybrid heating systems?
A hybrid heating system for industrial or commercial buildings combines multiple heat sources to deliver heat efficiently, flexibly and sustainably. The system can automatically select the most suitable energy source based on heat demand, operating conditions, running costs and energy availability.
Heat pumps have become increasingly popular thanks to their high efficiency and use of renewable energy. However, a heat-pump-only solution can involve significant capital expenditure. By combining a heat pump with high-performance infrared heaters (electric or gas-fired), the overall investment can typically be reduced by 30–40%, with virtually no increase in operating costs.
To achieve this, a central control platform is required to manage and prioritise the different heat sources intelligently. Schwank has developed an advanced control system designed to optimise energy use and ensure seamless interaction between the technologies.
Hybrid heating gives businesses greater flexibility in responding to evolving energy policies, grid constraints and environmental regulations — an important step towards long-term sustainability.
How does a Schwank hybrid system work?
Heating systems are usually sized according to the design outdoor temperature, which is only reached on a handful of days each year. As a result, the peak heating capacity is rarely required. This means heat pumps can often be installed at a smaller capacity, reducing overall system cost.
Any shortfall in peak demand is covered by cost-effective technologies such as electric infrared heating, which maintains a consistent heat output regardless of the outside temperature. While heat pumps become less efficient at low ambient temperatures, infrared heaters continue to perform reliably.
In a hybrid arrangement:
- The heat pump provides the base load.
- Once the ambient temperature falls below the bivalence point, the infrared heaters automatically support the system and deliver the peak load.
- Intelligent controls ensure both systems operate in the most efficient combination.
Case study
How a 20,000 m² logistics hub saved €280,000
Advantages of hybrid industrial heating systems
- Lower capital costs – smaller heat pump capacity required due to the supplementary heat source (investment reduced by up to 40%)
- Reduced maintenance spend – potential maintenance savings of up to 60%
- High operational resilience – two independent systems ensure continuity of heat supply even if one component fails
- Improved life-cycle performance – longer service life and enhanced sustainability
Efficient heating and cooling with a fully integrated system
Explore our hybrid solutions for maximum energy savings, comfort and long-term performance.
Schwank Ltd.
Unit D2, Armthorpe Business Park
Durham Lane
Doncaster DN3 3DY
England
At a Glance
Latest News
Schwank North America celebrates its 50th Anniversary
As part of a global family business, Schwank North America provides energy-efficient infrared heating and ventilation systems for commercial and industrial buildings. The company offers an extensive line of HVAC systems and also provides design and consultation services to ensure customers receive a high level of comfort, energy savings, and quality.
Schwank wins prestigious award for innovation
stern magazine has recognised innovative leaders among mid-sized companies, and Schwank is not to be missed. All German medium-sized companies that submitted at least five patents were included in the evaluation. On the list of 500 companies from 30 sectors - from drive technology to equipment manufacturing - Schwank is in the heating, ventilation and cooling category.
eSchwank – the most powerful electric heaters for industry
The heating specialist Schwank has added another climate-neutral product to its portfolio, by launching an innovative, powerful, electric infrared heater. The new device has been specially developed to meet the demanding requirements of industrial and commercial buildings in regard to the EU Net-Zero Industry Act goals.
We will be happy to advise you individually! Leave us your contact details and we will get back to you.
Schwank Climate & Heating Systems
Thank you for your message. The message was delivered.
