Architectural integration of Viessmann heat pumps
The heat pump market is rapidly growing: between 2024 and 2025, the sector in Europe exceeded $16 billion, with an expected annual growth rate of 19.3%. Today, the heat pump is no longer a technical exception but a common requirement, even in urban contexts, small gardens, and balconies. In particular, Viessmann heat pumps—such as the Vitocal 150‑A, 250‑A, 200‑S, 222‑S series—have become a residential standard. This shift has brought a new expectation from end customers: merely being efficient, quiet, and sustainable is no longer enough. The system must also integrate, harmonize, or even "disappear" from view. Where once an external unit in the courtyard was tolerated, today clients design gardens like living rooms, often in increasingly tight spaces. It’s increasingly unacceptable for a technical device to ruin the final aesthetic.
The result?
Every day, installers and designers face a growing challenge: to reconcile specific aesthetic demands with the technical constraints imposed by the manufacturer. Viessmann manuals are clear: the unit requires precise ventilation clearances, accessible placement, and—especially for monoblock models—a technical elevation from the ground (plinths or bases).
In this context, the installer is on the front line, balancing rigorous technical specifications with ever-increasing aesthetic expectations. Often, they resort to makeshift solutions—improvised walls, wood panels, garden screens, custom paint jobs—which inevitably increase time, cost for the client, and risk compromising the unit’s efficiency—and thus damaging their reputation.
Covering, not hiding: a new approach
The answer to the conflict between aesthetic demands and technical constraints is not to “hide at all costs”, but to cover intelligently. “Hiding” often means complicating things: building visual barriers, erecting walls, using dense hedges or improvised structures — all solutions that, over time, hinder ventilation, reduce accessibility for maintenance, and increase functional risks.
Covering, on the other hand, is about design. It’s an architectural approach that starts from respecting technical specifications — minimum distances, airflow paths, maintenance access — and leads to a solution that integrates, protects, and enhances the installation, without compromising customer satisfaction.
5 ways to cover a Viessmann heat pump
| PROS | CONS | WHEN TO USE IT | |
|
VEGETAL SCREENING  |
✓ Natural integration |
✗ Invasive vegetation |
Large gardens with open installations |
MASONRY STRUCTURE |
✓ Maximum architectural integration |
✗ High initial cost |
New buildings or renovations with layout flexibility |
|
SOUNDPROOF CABIN  |
✓ High noise reduction |
✗ Extremely bulky |
Particularly noise-sensitive areas (e.g., densely built condominiums) |
|
“SOFT” COVERING  |
✓ Economical |
✗ Poor durability |
Temporary solutions or non-visible technical areas |
|
VENTILATED BOX WITH ADJUSTABLE LOUVRES  |
✓ Architecturally eleganta |
✗ Requires careful size and configuration selection |
All installations requiring technical performance + aesthetic results (incl. retrofit) |
Why is the ventilated box with adjustable louvres the most popular choice among Viessmann professionals?
Because it offers the ideal balance between functionality and design: it complies with the manufacturer’s technical requirements, adapts precisely to the space thanks to its modularity and customization, matches the client’s aesthetic preferences, and—last but not least—offers better profit margins compared to other solutions. Moreover, it's often easy to install and transport even in challenging contexts, thanks to an intuitive assembly system and optimized packaging.
Warning! Not all ventilated covers are created equal
To be truly effective, they must be designed with the following criteria in mind:
✓ An active ventilation system, with adjustable louvres that direct exhaust airflow, preventing heat build-up and recirculation towards the intake;
✓ A structure made of aluminium composite, not plain sheet metal, ensuring rigidity, lightness, and superior acoustic comfort: this material dampens vibrations, reduces resonance, and softens rain noise;
✓ Adjustable feet, essential not only for raising the cover off the ground to allow airflow from below (chimney effect), but also to adapt the structure to uneven or sloped surfaces;
✓ Lastly, they must offer premium aesthetics, with refined finishes, architectural proportions, and a palette of colours that blends harmoniously with the existing building.
Big Blade – The Ultimate Cover for Viessmann Heat Pumps
At Box Air Klima, we have turned years of field experience into a concrete solution.
After years of working closely with installers, HVAC designers and end customers, we realised that a technical cover cannot be just a “protective shell.” It must solve the functional, aesthetic, and operational challenges that arise on site every day.
With this approach, we designed our range of professional ventilated boxes for Viessmann heat pumps: Big Blade. A complete architectural system created to make the installer’s job easier, protect the system, and enhance the visual impact of the installation. Each of our models is designed to:
✓ Meet the ventilation requirements specified in Viessmann manuals,
✓ Adapt to real installation conditions (on plinths, on the ground, on walls, with non-standard piping),
✓ Be customised (colours, sizes, finishes),
✓ Be compatible with both larger and smaller heat pumps (thanks to our full size range),
✓ Offer high perceived value for the end customer — and high margins for the professional.
No complications,
no on-site modifications.
Compatibility with all Viessmann Heat Pumps
Reduce installation time and avoid custom work. Our ventilated covers are available from stock in standard sizes already matched to the most popular Viessmann models. No custom measurements, no complex on-site modifications — you just need to know the model.
| Viessmann Model | Type | Dimensions | Recommended Size |
| Vitocal 100‑S / 111‑S | Split air-to-water | 900 × 1345 × 412 | L |
| Vitocal 100‑A | Monobloc air-to-water | 1047 × 1409 × 455 | 3XL |
| Vitocal 150‑A / 151‑A | Monobloc high T° | 1144 × 1382 × 600 | XXL |
| Vitocal 200‑S / 222‑S | Split air-to-water | 1080 × 850 × 500 | XL |
| Vitocal 250‑A / 252‑A | Monobloc high T° R290 | 1144 × 1382 × 600 | 3XL |
| Vitocal 250‑S | Hybrid split | 1040 × 1255 × 340 | 3XL |
Technical note: The recommended size already takes into account accessory space (pipes, fittings, valves) to prevent installation issues. Adjustable feet allow mounting on plinths or uneven surfaces.
🔧 Looking for compatibility with another model?
Simply check our Complete Size Guide or, even easier, use our online Configurator to find the best solution for your customer.
Discover the benefits of becoming one of our installers or Request the professional price list
Professional FAQs about our ventilated covers for Viessmann heat pumps
Do ventilated covers alter the thermal exchange performance of Viessmann heat pumps?
No — if properly designed. In Box Air Klima’s Big Blade, the adjustable louvres and front/rear openings ensure a natural airflow, avoiding hot air pockets and maintaining the COP specified by the manufacturer.
How does composite aluminium improve acoustic comfort?
The composite panel has high density and damping capacity. Mechanical vibrations from the outdoor unit are absorbed, resonances reduced, and rain noise dissipated. Unlike thin metal housings, composite does not amplify noise or create echo.
Can the cover be mounted on a raised base?
Absolutely. In areas with heavy rainfall or snow risk, it is standard practice to install the Viessmann heat pump on an elevated base (plinth or support). In such cases, simply choose a vertical version of the cover (e.g. VL or VXL sizes), specifically designed to keep the bottom air intake and top exhaust completely unobstructed.
Why does your cover have adjustable feet instead of resting directly on the ground?
Adjustable feet are not an aesthetic choice but a technical necessity. They:
- Ensure bottom ventilation, as per Viessmann technical manuals: cool air enters from below and exits above (chimney effect), optimising performance and preventing hot air recirculation.
- Compensate for uneven ground, eliminating the need for masonry work or levelling bases.
Without this, airflow and unit lifespan may be compromised.
Can the cover be installed on systems with visible pipes or external bends?
Yes. By designing the box with larger L×P dimensions (for refrigerant lines, valves, drains), pipes do not interfere with the louvres. Modular design also allows for technical cut-outs for pipes or connections on any side.
Can a ventilated cover be retrofitted to existing installations?
Yes, the modular design and top/side mounting make it possible to install on existing units without disassembly or machine intervention. Just check clearances to ensure proper airflow.
Do the covers withstand extreme weather conditions?
Yes, composite aluminium surfaces are resistant to UV rays, corrosive agents, and hail. The ventilation system also decouples the cover from the unit, preventing heat build-up or damaging condensation.
How do you ensure aesthetic integration in sensitive architectural contexts?
Covers are available in multiple finishes (RAL white, matte anthracite, wood effect) with matte surfaces and minimalist profiles. Balanced proportions follow contemporary architectural principles, suitable for premium façades or heritage settings. Custom sizes, finishes, vertical versions, and aesthetic upgrades are available. Technical design consultancy is also offered.
Is there a reserved price list or dedicated trade discount for installers and designers?
Yes. Box Air Klima offers a trade-only price list with personalised discounts for sector professionals, no minimum order, and dedicated technical support. The margin is designed to benefit both resale and installation, making the cover a profitable and technical solution.
Request the updated list and a tailored quote via our contact form
