Staying safe after the blackout: Viessmann supports Berlin heat pump operators and installer partners

Allendorf (Eder), Germany, January 9, 2026 –  After several days of power outages in parts of Berlin, the energy supply has been restored. As the city returns to normal, many homeowners are faced with the question of how their heating systems survived the frosty days without electricity. As a manufacturer of modern energy systems, Viessmann makes a clear statement: heat pumps do not explode!

However, a detailed inspection of the devices, especially heat pumps with natural propane refrigerant, is necessary after frost damage. Homeowners should contact their local installers, who will be supported by the Berlin branch office and the customer care team if necessary. Viessmann Climate Solutions is part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), a global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.

Patented protection system

All Viessmann monoblock heat pumps with natural refrigerant R290 (model designation Vitocal 15x-A, 25x-A) are equipped with a patented protection system as a standard feature. This safety device operates mechanically, meaning it also works during a power failure. It reliably ensures that refrigerant does not enter the building via the heating water in the case of a defect in the refrigeration circuit. 

"During normal operation, the refrigerant circulates in a closed refrigeration circuit within the outdoor unit. A conventional heat pump with an output of 13 kW, as is often used in modernization projects, contains approximately 2 kg of propane. This is only a fraction of the content of a gas bottle used in gas grills or camping vehicles. Nevertheless, uncontrolled refrigerant leaks can pose a fire and explosion risk. Therefore, the installation conditions (especially safety distances) for heat pumps must always be strictly adhered to. If damage to the refrigeration circuit does occur, the protection system prevents the refrigerant from entering the building via the heating water. Instead, the non-toxic and environmentally friendly refrigerant escapes into the environment without any danger," explains Sandro Roman, Heat Pump Product Manager at Viessmann Deutschland GmbH.

With regard to heating systems, it is strongly recommended that owners do not attempt to check the system themselves after frost damage. Instead, they should contact an installer company that can carry out a professional inspection and put the system back into operation. Installer companies in the region can be found using this search tool.

Emergency aid program for Berlin

To provide the best possible support to system operators and regional installers in Berlin during this unusual time, Viessmann has expanded its capacities:

• Increased spare parts inventory: The Berlin-Adlershof branch was stocked with additional material for frost damage.

• Extended availability:
  Friday, January 9, 2026: Extended opening hours until 5:00 p.m.
  Saturday, January 10, 2026: Special opening from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

• Service-Support: Additional technical staff are available to support installer partners on site.

You can reach the Viessmann branch here:

Wagner-Régeny-Straße 23
12489 Berlin-Adlershof
+49 30 660666-10

About Viessmann Climate Solutions

Founded in 1917 as a heating technology manufacturer, today Viessmann Climate Solutions is a leading global provider of sustainable climate (heating, cooling, water and air quality) and renewable energy solutions. The Integrated Viessmann Climate Solutions portfolio seamlessly connects products and systems via digital platforms and services, creating an individualized feel-good climate for users. Viessmann Climate Solutions is part of Carrier Global Corporation, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions that matter for people and our planet for generations to come. For more information, visit https://www.viessmann-climatesolutions.com/en.html.