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B1 noun #7,000 le plus courant 9 min de lecture

Heizkörper

Top 7,000

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces Heizkörper en 30 secondes

Explication Heizkörper in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that a 'Heizkörper' is the thing in your room that makes it warm. You should learn it as a basic noun like 'Tisch' (table) or 'Bett' (bed). Focus on the gender: 'der Heizkörper'. You might use it in very simple sentences like 'Der Heizkörper ist warm' (The radiator is warm) or 'Der Heizkörper ist kalt' (The radiator is cold). You don't need to worry about technical details or maintenance yet. Just recognize the word when you see it in a list of household objects. It is a masculine noun, so remember to use 'der', 'ein', or 'mein'. In the plural, it stays the same: 'die Heizkörper'. This is helpful because you don't have to learn a new ending. Practice saying it slowly: Heiz-kör-per.

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At the A2 level, you start to interact with the 'Heizkörper'. You should learn the verbs 'aufdrehen' (to turn up) and 'zudrehen' (to turn down). You might need to tell someone, 'Es ist kalt, bitte dreh den Heizkörper auf.' You also begin to use prepositions with the word. For example, 'Die Katze schläft hinter dem Heizkörper' (The cat sleeps behind the radiator). You should also be aware of the word 'Heizung', which people often use instead of 'Heizkörper' in daily life. At this stage, you can describe the radiator using simple adjectives like 'neu', 'alt', 'groß', or 'sauber'. You might also see this word in basic rental agreements or apartment descriptions when looking for a place to live.

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At the B1 level, you are expected to handle common problems related to the 'Heizkörper'. This is where technical terms like 'entlüften' (to bleed/vent) become important. You should be able to explain to a landlord or a 'Hausmeister' (caretaker) that your radiator is making noises or not getting warm. You might say, 'Der Heizkörper gluckert, ich glaube, er muss entlüftet werden.' You also start to use the word in the context of energy saving and costs. You understand that 'Heizkörper' are part of the 'Nebenkosten' (utility costs) in Germany. You can discuss where to place furniture so it doesn't block the heat. Your vocabulary expands to include compound nouns like 'Heizkörperthermostat' (the dial on the radiator).

At the B2 level, you can discuss the 'Heizkörper' in more abstract or technical terms. You might talk about different types of heating systems, such as 'Zentralheizung' vs. 'Fernwärme', and how they affect the efficiency of the 'Heizkörper'. You can read articles about energy efficiency and understand tips like 'Heizkörper nicht mit Vorhängen verdecken' (do not cover radiators with curtains). You are comfortable using the genitive case, such as 'die Reinigung des Heizkörpers'. You can also use the word in professional contexts, for example, if you work in construction, architecture, or property management. You understand the nuances between a 'Radiator' (portable) and a 'Heizkörper' (fixed).

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At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated understanding of the word and its surrounding technical field. You can follow complex discussions about 'Heizlastberechnung' (heat load calculation) or the 'Vorlauftemperatur' (flow temperature) required for specific 'Heizkörper'. You can express subtle complaints or requirements, such as the aesthetic impact of a 'Rippenheizkörper' in a modern interior design concept. You understand idiomatic expressions or metaphors related to heat and comfort. You can read technical manuals for 'Heizkörperinstallation' without difficulty. Your use of the word is precise, and you never confuse it with 'Heizung' unless you are intentionally using colloquial language.

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At the C2 level, you command the word 'Heizkörper' with the same precision as a native expert. You can engage in debates about the environmental impact of different 'Heizkörper-Materialien' (materials) like aluminum versus steel. You understand the historical development of heating technology in Germany, from the first cast-iron 'Heizkörper' in the 19th century to modern low-temperature units used with heat pumps. You can write formal reports or articles about energy policy where the efficiency of 'Heizkörper' plays a role. You are aware of regional variations in terminology and can navigate any social or professional situation involving the word with absolute fluency and native-like nuance.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

Heizkörper en 30 secondes

Heizkörper means 'radiator' in English.
It is a masculine noun: der Heizkörper.
The plural form is identical: die Heizkörper.
Common actions include 'aufdrehen' (turn up) and 'entlüften' (bleed).

The German noun Heizkörper is a quintessential term in the life of anyone residing in Central Europe, particularly in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland. Etymologically, it is a compound noun formed from the verb heizen (to heat) and the noun Körper (body or object). Literally translated as a 'heating body,' it refers specifically to the radiator units found in rooms that distribute heat from a central heating system. Unlike in some warmer climates where portable space heaters are common, the Heizkörper is usually a permanent fixture, often made of steel plates or cast iron, mounted to walls beneath windows.

Physical Form: In modern German apartments, you will most frequently encounter the Plattenheizkörper (panel radiator), which is flat and efficient. Older buildings might still feature the Rippenheizkörper (column radiator), known for its distinct vertical sections and high heat retention capacity.

The term is used in both technical and everyday contexts. You might hear a landlord discuss the Heizkörperleistung (radiator output) during a renovation, or a child complaining that the Heizkörper is 'gluckert' (making a gurgling sound), indicating that air is trapped inside and it needs maintenance. It is the focal point of comfort during the long German winter months, which usually span from October to April.

Stell bitte die Blumen nicht direkt auf den Heizkörper, sonst vertrocknen sie zu schnell.

Beyond the physical object, the Heizkörper represents a broader cultural concept of 'Gemütlichkeit' (coziness). In German literature and film, the act of sitting next to a warm radiator while it snows outside is a common trope for domestic peace. However, it also brings responsibilities. Germans are famous for 'Stoßlüften' (shock ventilation), where windows are opened wide for five minutes. During this time, it is considered a cardinal sin to leave the Heizkörper turned on, as it wastes energy—a topic of high importance in German society.

Technical Context: In engineering, the Heizkörper is defined as a heat exchanger. It works through a combination of convection (warming the air that flows through it) and radiation (emitting infrared heat directly to the objects in the room).

Wir müssen den Heizkörper entlüften, da er oben kalt bleibt.

Whether you are renting an apartment, buying furniture (like a Heizkörperverkleidung or radiator cover), or simply trying to stay warm, mastering this word is essential for navigating daily life in Germany. It is not just a piece of metal; it is the heart of the German home's climate control system.

Using Heizkörper correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and the specific verbs that typically accompany it. Because it is a physical object that can be manipulated, cleaned, or broken, it appears frequently in the accusative and dative cases. The most common actions associated with a radiator are turning it up, turning it down, or bleeding it.

With Motion Verbs: Verbs like aufdrehen (to turn up/open) and zudrehen (to turn down/close) are used with the accusative case because they represent a change in the state of the valve.

Kannst du bitte den Heizkörper im Wohnzimmer ein wenig aufdrehen? Mir ist kalt.

When describing the location of something relative to the radiator, you use dative prepositions. For example, 'hinter dem Heizkörper' (behind the radiator) or 'neben dem Heizkörper' (next to the radiator). This is crucial for interior design or when looking for lost items like a cat or a remote control.

In more complex sentences, especially those involving maintenance, you will encounter the verb entlüften. This is a specific German term for releasing trapped air from the radiator to ensure hot water can circulate properly. This usually requires a Heizkörperschlüssel (radiator key).

Bevor der Winter beginnt, sollten wir alle Heizkörper im Haus gründlich entlüften.

Descriptive Usage: Adjectives like glühend heiß (glowing hot), lauwarm (lukewarm), or eiskalt (ice cold) are frequently used to describe the state of the radiator.

In professional contexts, such as real estate listings, you might see phrases like 'neue Heizkörper installiert' (new radiators installed) or 'Heizkörper mit Thermostatventilen' (radiators with thermostatic valves). These details are important for assessing the energy efficiency of a property. Even in figurative language, though rare, one might say someone has 'einen Heizkörper verschluckt' (swallowed a radiator) to describe someone who is radiating an unusual amount of body heat.

Der alte Heizkörper rostet an der Unterseite und muss dringend ausgetauscht werden.

You will hear Heizkörper in a variety of real-world settings, ranging from the mundane chores of home life to high-stakes discussions with landlords or craftsmen. One of the most common places is the Baumarkt (hardware store). If you walk into a Bauhaus or Obi, you will see an entire aisle dedicated to Heizkörper and their accessories.

At the Hardware Store: Customer: 'Ich suche einen flachen Heizkörper für mein kleines Badezimmer.' Assistant: 'Da haben wir spezielle Handtuchheizkörper, die sehr platzsparend sind.'

Another frequent environment is during the 'Heizkostenabrechnung' (heating bill) season. When roommates or families discuss why the utility bill is so high, the conversation invariably turns to how many hours the Heizkörper were running and at what setting (usually 1 to 5 on the thermostat). You might hear: 'Warum läuft der Heizkörper im Flur auf Stufe 5, wenn niemand da ist?'

In the context of 'Mietrecht' (tenancy law), the word becomes legally significant. If a Heizkörper doesn't reach a certain temperature in winter, the tenant might have the right to a 'Mietminderung' (rent reduction). You will hear this discussed in legal advice centers or between tenants: 'Mein Vermieter weigert sich, den defekten Heizkörper zu reparieren.'

Der Klempner sagte, dass der Heizkörper verkalkt ist und deshalb nicht mehr richtig warm wird.

Social media and interior design blogs also use the word frequently when discussing 'Heizkörper-Hacks'—ways to hide ugly old radiators using stylish covers or how to paint them with special 'Heizkörperlack' (radiator paint) that doesn't peel under high temperatures. In all these cases, the word is treated as a standard, non-slang term that everyone is expected to know.

On the Radio/News: During energy crises, news anchors might provide tips on how to save energy, such as 'Stellen Sie keine Möbel vor die Heizkörper, damit die Luft zirkulieren kann.'

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing Heizkörper with the more general term Heizung. While they are often used interchangeably in casual conversation, they are not strictly the same. Heizung refers to the entire heating system (the boiler, the pipes, and the concept of heating), whereas Heizkörper refers specifically to the metal unit in the room.

Mistake: System vs. Unit: Incorrect: 'Die Heizkörper im ganzen Haus ist kaputt.' (The radiator in the whole house is broken - implies only one unit). Correct: 'Die Heizung im ganzen Haus ist kaputt.' (The heating system is broken).

Another error involves the gender and plural forms. Because Körper ends in '-er', some learners assume the plural is '-ers' or '-eren'. In German, most masculine nouns ending in '-er' do not change their form in the plural. It is 'ein Heizkörper' and 'zwei Heizkörper'. Using 'Heizkörpers' as a plural is a common 'Denglisch' mistake.

Learners also struggle with the verbs 'anschalten' vs. 'aufdrehen'. While you 'anschalten' (turn on) a television or a light, you typically 'aufdrehen' (turn/twist open) a radiator because it involves a mechanical valve. Saying 'Ich schalte den Heizkörper an' sounds slightly unnatural to a native speaker, though it is understood. 'Aufdrehen' is the more authentic choice.

Falsch: Ich habe den Heizkörper angemacht. Richtig: Ich habe den Heizkörper aufgedreht.

Lastly, there is the confusion between Heizkörper and Ofen. An Ofen is a stove or oven (like a wood-burning stove), which generates its own heat locally. A Heizkörper is merely a distributor of heat generated elsewhere. Calling a modern water-filled radiator an 'Ofen' will cause confusion when you are trying to get it repaired.

While Heizkörper is the standard term, several synonyms and related words exist depending on the technology and the context. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and understand technical manuals or landlord communications more effectively.

Radiator vs. Heizkörper: The word Radiator exists in German too, but it usually refers specifically to mobile, oil-filled electric heaters that you can plug into a socket. If you tell a German you bought a 'Radiator', they will assume it is a portable unit on wheels, not a wall-mounted one.

For those living in modern apartments with underfloor heating, the word Heizkörper becomes obsolete. Instead, you talk about the Fußbodenheizung. In this case, there are no visible 'bodies' in the room, only 'Heizschleifen' (heating loops) under the floorboards.

If you are in a bathroom, you might see a Handtuchwärmer (towel warmer). While technically a Heizkörper, its primary purpose is indicated by its name. Similarly, in industrial settings, one might use a Konvektor, which is a more powerful, often fan-assisted version of a standard radiator.

Der Konvektor erwärmt die Werkstatt viel schneller als ein normaler Heizkörper.

Comparison Table

Heizkörper: Standard, wall-mounted, water-filled.
Radiator: Usually portable, electric/oil-filled.
Ofen: Wood, coal, or gas-burning unit that creates fire/heat.
Heizlüfter: Small, portable electric fan heater.

Knowing these differences prevents you from calling a technician for the wrong thing. If your central heating is out, you complain about the Heizung. If only the unit in the bedroom is cold, you report a problem with the Heizkörper.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Neutre

Informel

Child friendly

Argot

Le savais-tu ?

The first modern radiators were invented in the mid-19th century. Before that, Germans used 'Kachelöfen' (tiled stoves) which were much larger and built into the room's structure.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈhaɪtsˌkœʁpɐ/

US /ˈhaɪtsˌkɜːrpər/

Primary stress is on the first syllable: HEIZ-kör-per.

Rime avec

Körper Störkörper Fremdkörper Himmelskörper Glaskörper Festkörper Leuchtkörper Schallkörper

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'z' like an English 'z' (it should be 'ts').
Ignoring the umlaut 'ö' and saying 'korper' instead.
Adding an 's' for the plural.
Pronouncing the 'h' as silent.
Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize as a compound word.

Écriture 3/5

Requires remembering the 'ö' and the 'z'.

Expression orale 4/5

The 'ö' and 'z' combination can be tricky for English speakers.

Écoute 2/5

Very distinct sound, usually easy to hear.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

heiß warm kalt Zimmer Körper

Apprends ensuite

Thermostat entlüften Nebenkosten Mietvertrag Hausmeister

Avancé

Vorlauftemperatur Wärmetauscher Brennwerttechnik Hydraulischer Abgleich

Grammaire à connaître

Compound Nouns

Heizung + Körper = Heizkörper. The gender is always determined by the last word (der Körper).

Masculine Nouns ending in -er

Most of these nouns do not change in the plural: der Heizkörper -> die Heizkörper.

Dative Plural

Add an 'n' to the plural in the dative case: 'hinter den Heizkörpern'.

Two-way Prepositions

'An den Heizkörper' (accusative/movement) vs 'Am Heizkörper' (dative/position).

Separable Verbs with Radiators

Ich drehe den Heizkörper AUF. (aufdrehen).

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Exemples par niveau

Der Heizkörper ist warm.

The radiator is warm.

Subject in nominative case.

Wo ist der Heizkörper?

Where is the radiator?

Question with 'wo'.

Das ist ein Heizkörper.

That is a radiator.

Indefinite article 'ein'.

Mein Heizkörper ist weiß.

My radiator is white.

Possessive pronoun 'mein'.

Der Heizkörper ist im Zimmer.

The radiator is in the room.

Preposition 'in' with dative.

Ist der Heizkörper heiß?

Is the radiator hot?

Yes/No question.

Hier sind zwei Heizkörper.

Here are two radiators.

Plural form (same as singular).

Der Heizkörper ist aus.

The radiator is off.

Adverbial use of 'aus'.

Dreh bitte den Heizkörper auf.

Please turn the radiator up.

Imperative with accusative object.

Der Hund schläft vor dem Heizkörper.

The dog is sleeping in front of the radiator.

Dative after preposition 'vor'.

Ich muss den Heizkörper putzen.

I have to clean the radiator.

Modal verb 'müssen' with accusative.

Der Heizkörper funktioniert nicht.

The radiator is not working.

Negation with 'nicht'.

Wir haben neue Heizkörper gekauft.

We bought new radiators.

Perfekt tense with plural object.

Ist der Heizkörper im Bad an?

Is the radiator in the bathroom on?

Shortened preposition 'im' (in dem).

Die Heizkörper sind sehr alt.

The radiators are very old.

Plural subject.

Stell den Tisch nicht an den Heizkörper.

Don't put the table against the radiator.

Accusative after 'an' (direction).

Der Heizkörper macht komische Geräusche.

The radiator is making strange noises.

Present tense with plural noun 'Geräusche'.

Man sollte den Heizkörper regelmäßig entlüften.

One should bleed the radiator regularly.

Passive-like 'man' construction.

Hinter dem Heizkörper hat sich Staub gesammelt.

Dust has collected behind the radiator.

Reflexive verb 'sich sammeln'.

Können Sie den Heizkörper reparieren?

Can you repair the radiator?

Polite 'Sie' form.

Das Thermostat am Heizkörper ist kaputt.

The thermostat on the radiator is broken.

Prepositional phrase as attribute.

Ich hänge meine nasse Jacke über den Heizkörper.

I am hanging my wet jacket over the radiator.

Two-way preposition 'über' with accusative.

Der Heizkörper wird oben nicht warm.

The radiator is not getting warm at the top.

Adverb 'oben' as location.

Wie viele Heizkörper gibt es in der Wohnung?

How many radiators are there in the apartment?

'Es gibt' with accusative plural.

Die Effizienz des Heizkörpers lässt nach.

The efficiency of the radiator is decreasing.

Genitive singular 'des Heizkörpers'.

Moderne Heizkörper verbrauchen weniger Energie.

Modern radiators consume less energy.

Comparative 'weniger'.

Die Heizkörperverkleidung passt nicht zum Rest der Möbel.

The radiator cover doesn't match the rest of the furniture.

Compound noun 'Heizkörperverkleidung'.

Er strich den Heizkörper mit hitzebeständigem Lack.

He painted the radiator with heat-resistant lacquer.

Dative with 'mit' and adjective ending.

Die Heizkörper sind über das zentrale System vernetzt.

The radiators are networked via the central system.

Passive state (Zustandspassiv).

Man darf keine brennbaren Stoffe auf den Heizkörper legen.

One must not place flammable materials on the radiator.

Prohibition with 'darf nicht'.

Trotz des neuen Heizkörpers bleibt das Zimmer kühl.

Despite the new radiator, the room remains cool.

Preposition 'trotz' with genitive.

Die Installation der Heizkörper dauerte drei Tage.

The installation of the radiators took three days.

Genitive plural 'der Heizkörper'.

Die Dimensionierung der Heizkörper ist entscheidend für das Raumklima.

The sizing of the radiators is crucial for the indoor climate.

Nominalization 'Dimensionierung'.

Alte Rippenheizkörper haben eine enorme Wärmespeicherkapazität.

Old column radiators have an enormous heat storage capacity.

Compound noun 'Wärmespeicherkapazität'.

Durch das Entlüften der Heizkörper lässt sich der Energieverbrauch senken.

By bleeding the radiators, energy consumption can be reduced.

Gerund-like 'das Entlüften'.

Die Heizkörper sind ästhetisch ansprechend in die Nischen integriert.

The radiators are aesthetically pleasingly integrated into the niches.

Adverbial use of 'ästhetisch ansprechend'.

Das Gluckern im Heizkörper deutet auf Luft im System hin.

The gurgling in the radiator indicates air in the system.

Separable verb 'hindeuten auf'.

Ein hydraulischer Abgleich optimiert die Wärmeverteilung der Heizkörper.

Hydraulic balancing optimizes the heat distribution of the radiators.

Technical terminology.

In vielen Altbauten sind die Heizkörper hoffnungslos veraltet.

In many old buildings, the radiators are hopelessly outdated.

Adverb 'hoffnungslos'.

Die Strahlungswärme des Heizkörpers sorgt für Behaglichkeit.

The radiant heat of the radiator ensures coziness.

Abstract noun 'Behaglichkeit'.

Die Korrosion der Heizkörper von innen heraus ist ein schleichender Prozess.

The corrosion of the radiators from the inside out is a gradual process.

Complex prepositional phrase.

Niedertemperatur-Heizkörper sind für den Betrieb mit Wärmepumpen prädestiniert.

Low-temperature radiators are predestined for operation with heat pumps.

Participle 'prädestiniert'.

Man muss die Heizkörperoberflächentemperatur genauestens kalibrieren.

One must calibrate the radiator surface temperature extremely precisely.

Superlative adverb 'genauestens'.

Die architektonische Integration der Heizkörper erfordert oft maßgeschneiderte Lösungen.

The architectural integration of radiators often requires tailor-made solutions.

Adjective 'maßgeschneidert'.

Eine unzureichende Entlüftung führt unweigerlich zu einer Minderleistung der Heizkörper.

Inadequate venting inevitably leads to an underperformance of the radiators.

Adverb 'unweigerlich'.

Die thermodynamischen Eigenschaften verschiedener Heizkörpertypen variieren erheblich.

The thermodynamic properties of different radiator types vary considerably.

Plural genitive 'Heizkörpertypen'.

Trotz technologischer Fortschritte bleibt der Heizkörper ein unverzichtbares Element.

Despite technological progress, the radiator remains an indispensable element.

Concessive clause with 'trotz'.

Die gesetzlichen Vorgaben zur Wärmedämmung betreffen auch die Positionierung der Heizkörper.

Legal requirements for thermal insulation also affect the positioning of radiators.

Subject-verb agreement with 'betreffen'.

Collocations courantes

Heizkörper entlüften

Heizkörper aufdrehen

Heizkörper zudrehen

alter Heizkörper

Heizkörper streichen

gluckernder Heizkörper

Heizkörper austauschen

Heizkörper reinigen

flacher Heizkörper

Heizkörperthermostat

Phrases Courantes

Den Heizkörper voll aufdrehen

— To turn the radiator to its maximum setting. Used when it's very cold.

Draußen sind minus zehn Grad, ich muss den Heizkörper voll aufdrehen.

Am Heizkörper sitzen

— To sit right next to the radiator for warmth. Common in winter.

Ich sitze am liebsten direkt am Heizkörper und lese ein Buch.

Den Heizkörper entstauben

— To remove dust from the radiator, often a tedious chore.

Einmal im Jahr sollte man die Heizkörper gründlich entstauben.

Heizkörper bleibt kalt

— A common complaint when the heating is not working.

Obwohl ich ihn aufgedreht habe, bleibt der Heizkörper kalt.

Heizkörper wird heiß

— The radiator is heating up properly.

Endlich wird der Heizkörper heiß!

Heizkörper gluckert

— The radiator makes a gurgling sound due to air bubbles.

Wenn der Heizkörper gluckert, brauchst du den Entlüftungsschlüssel.

Heizkörper verkleiden

— To put a decorative cover over a radiator.

Wir wollen den hässlichen Heizkörper im Flur verkleiden.

Heizkörper abmontieren

— To remove a radiator from the wall, usually for renovation.

Bevor wir tapezieren, müssen wir den Heizkörper abmontieren.

Heizkörper tropft

— The radiator is leaking water.

Hilfe, der Heizkörper im Wohnzimmer tropft!

Heizkörper-Reflektorfolie

— Reflective foil placed behind a radiator to save energy.

Mit einer Heizkörper-Reflektorfolie sparst du Heizkosten.

Souvent confondu avec

Heizkörper vs Heizung

Heizung is the whole system; Heizkörper is just the unit in the room.

Heizkörper vs Radiator

In German, Radiator usually means a portable electric heater.

Heizkörper vs Ofen

An Ofen is a stove or oven, not a water-filled radiator.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Einen Heizkörper im Bauch haben"

— To have a very high body temperature or to be someone who is always warm. Not very common but used humorously.

Du brauchst keine Jacke? Hast du einen Heizkörper im Bauch?

Informal

"Sich am Heizkörper wärmen"

— Literally to warm oneself at the radiator, but often implies seeking comfort.

Komm rein und wärm dich erst mal am Heizkörper.

Neutral

"Geld zum Heizkörper hinauswerfen"

— A variation of 'Geld zum Fenster hinauswerfen', specifically referring to wasting money on heating.

Lass das Fenster zu, wir werfen sonst das Geld zum Heizkörper hinaus!

Informal

"Heizkörper-Mentalität"

— A made-up term sometimes used to describe people who just want to stay inside where it's warm and avoid effort.

Mit deiner Heizkörper-Mentalität erreichen wir nie den Gipfel.

Slang/Invented

"Kalt wie ein Heizkörper im Sommer"

— Extremely cold or indifferent (since radiators are off in summer).

Ihre Antwort war so kalt wie ein Heizkörper im Sommer.

Poetic/Rare

"Den Heizkörper zum Glühen bringen"

— To heat a room intensely.

Im Winter bringen wir den Heizkörper zum Glühen.

Colloquial

"Hinter dem Heizkörper hervorkommen"

— To finally show oneself or speak up after being quiet/hidden.

Komm mal hinter dem Heizkörper hervor und sag uns deine Meinung.

Informal

"Wie ein Heizkörper strahlen"

— To beam with joy or health.

Sie strahlt heute wie ein frisch lackierter Heizkörper.

Informal/Humorous

"Heizkörper-Romantik"

— Mocking the lack of real romance when people just huddle by a radiator.

Zwei Pizza-Kartons und der Heizkörper – das ist unsere Heizkörper-Romantik.

Informal/Ironical

"Den Heizkörper als Ablage benutzen"

— To use the radiator as a shelf (often frowned upon).

Benutz den Heizkörper nicht ständig als Ablage für deine Socken!

Informal

Facile à confondre

Heizkörper vs Kühlkörper

Looks similar.

A Kühlkörper (heat sink) removes heat from electronics; a Heizkörper adds heat to a room.

Der Prozessor braucht einen größeren Kühlkörper.

Heizkörper vs Heizlüfter

Both heat a room.

A Heizlüfter is a small fan heater; a Heizkörper is a permanent radiator.

Stell den Heizlüfter nicht zu nah an das Sofa.

Heizkörper vs Boiler

Both related to hot water.

A Boiler stores hot water; a Heizkörper uses it to heat the room.

Der Boiler im Keller ist kaputt.

Heizkörper vs Therme

Both related to heating.

A Therme is the gas boiler/heater unit often found in kitchens; the Heizkörper is in the room.

Die Gastherme muss gewartet werden.

Heizkörper vs Kamin

Both provide heat.

A Kamin is a fireplace; a Heizkörper is a radiator.

Wir haben den Kamin gestern Abend angemacht.

Structures de phrases

Der [Noun] ist [Adjective].

Der Heizkörper ist warm.

Bitte [Verb] den [Noun] [Direction].

Bitte dreh den Heizkörper auf.

Ich glaube, der [Noun] muss [Verb-Participle] werden.

Ich glaube, der Heizkörper muss entlüftet werden.

Obwohl der [Noun] [Adjective] ist, [Verb] [Subject]...

Obwohl der Heizkörper an ist, friere ich.

Die [Noun-Property] des [Noun-Genitive] ist [Adjective].

Die Wärmeleistung des Heizkörpers ist unzureichend.

Je [Adjective] der [Noun], desto [Adjective]...

Je größer der Heizkörper, desto schneller wird es warm.

In Anbetracht der [Noun-Genitive] des [Noun-Genitive]...

In Anbetracht der Veralterung des Heizkörpers ist ein Austausch nötig.

[Participle-Phrase], ist der [Noun]...

Fachmännisch installiert, ist der Heizkörper äußerst effizient.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in winter, rare in summer.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'Heizkörpers' as plural. → die Heizkörper
Masculine nouns ending in -er don't take an -s in the plural in German.
Saying 'Der Heizkörper ist offen' for 'turned on'. → Der Heizkörper ist aufgedreht.
While 'offen' is understood, 'aufgedreht' (twisted open) is the standard technical term for valves.
Confusion between Heizung and Heizkörper. → Depends on context.
Use Heizkörper for the specific unit, Heizung for the whole system.
Capitalizing 'heizkörper' incorrectly. → Heizkörper
All nouns in German must be capitalized.
Using 'machen' instead of 'drehen'. → den Heizkörper aufdrehen / zudrehen
'Machen' is too vague; 'drehen' describes the actual movement of the dial.

Astuces

Don't cover your radiator

Ensure curtains or furniture are at least 15-20 cm away from the radiator. If the heat is trapped, the room won't get warm, and you'll waste money.

Bleed once a year

Bleed your radiators at the start of every heating season (October). It takes 5 minutes and can save up to 15% on your heating bill.

Dust reduces heat

A thick layer of dust inside the radiator can reduce its efficiency. Clean it once a year to keep your energy bills low.

Check for leaks

Check the valves of your radiators occasionally for moisture. Small leaks can damage your flooring and lead to pressure loss in the heating system.

Use the '*' setting

The snowflake symbol on the thermostat prevents the pipes from freezing in winter without heating the room fully. Use it when you are away for a few days.

Spray paint for a smooth finish

If you want to change the color of your radiator, using a spray can of radiator lacquer often gives a smoother finish than a brush.

Smart Thermostats

Replacing old manual dials with smart thermostats can allow you to control your radiators via phone and set schedules, saving significant energy.

Reflector Foil

Place aluminum reflector foil on the wall behind the radiator. It reflects the heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through the wall.

Learn the parts

Knowing words like 'Ventil' (valve) and 'Verschraubung' (fitting) will help you when talking to a plumber.

Stoßlüften rule

Always turn the radiator to zero before you open the window for your daily 'Stoßlüften'. It prevents the heater from working against the cold air.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Heating Corpse' (Körper = Body/Corpse). It's a 'body' in your room that 'heats' you up. Heiz + Körper.

Association visuelle

Imagine a white, ribbed radiator that looks like a ribcage (body/Körper) glowing with orange heat (Heiz).

Word Web

Heizung Warm Winter Wasser Metall Thermostat Entlüften Zimmer

Défi

Go to every room in your house and point at the radiator, saying 'Das ist ein Heizkörper' and 'Der Heizkörper ist [warm/kalt]'.

Origine du mot

A compound of 'heizen' (to heat) and 'Körper' (body). 'Heizen' comes from Middle High German 'heizen', from Old High German 'heizen', related to 'heiß' (hot). 'Körper' comes from Latin 'corpus'.

Sens originel : Literally 'heating body', describing an object that emits heat.

Germanic (Heiz-) and Latin-derived (Körper).

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities, but energy poverty (not being able to afford to turn on the Heizkörper) is a serious social issue in Germany.

In the UK/US, people often just say 'radiator'. The German word is more literal. In the US, central air (forced air) is more common than water radiators.

The 'Heizkörper' is a common background object in German 'Krimi' (crime) shows. Loriot, a famous German humorist, often had sketches involving domestic mishaps with heating. Modern German songs about winter often mention the 'warme Heizung' or 'Heizkörper'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Home Maintenance

Heizkörper entlüften
Thermostat austauschen
Dichtung prüfen
Wasser nachfüllen

Apartment Hunting

Zentralheizung vorhanden
Moderne Heizkörper
Heizkosten inklusive
Etagenheizung

Winter Daily Life

Heizkörper auf Stufe 3
Wäsche auf dem Heizkörper trocknen
Heizkörper zudrehen beim Lüften
Sich am Heizkörper aufwärmen

Hardware Store

Heizkörperlack kaufen
Entlüftungsschlüssel suchen
Heizkörperverkleidung nach Maß
Neuer Plattenheizkörper

Technical Discussions

Wärmeleistung in Watt
Anschlussabstand messen
Heizkörpernische dämmen
Zweirohrsystem

Amorces de conversation

"Ist dein Heizkörper eigentlich auch so laut, wenn er angeht?"

"Musstest du deine Heizkörper diesen Winter schon entlüften?"

"Wie hoch stellst du deinen Heizkörper normalerweise ein?"

"Findest du diese alten Rippenheizkörper auch schöner als die neuen?"

"Hast du Tipps, wie man den Staub hinter dem Heizkörper am besten wegbekommt?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe einen gemütlichen Winterabend. Welche Rolle spielt der warme Heizkörper dabei?

Hast du schon einmal Probleme mit deiner Heizung oder einem Heizkörper gehabt? Was ist passiert?

Wie versuchst du, Heizkosten zu sparen? Drehst du den Heizkörper oft runter?

In manchen Ländern gibt es keine Heizkörper. Wie fändest du das, wenn du dort leben würdest?

Stell dir vor, ein Heizkörper könnte sprechen. Was würde er über die Bewohner des Zimmers erzählen?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Heizung refers to the entire heating system of a house or apartment. Heizkörper is specifically the metal radiator unit in a single room. In daily life, Germans often say 'Heizung' when they mean 'Heizkörper', but in technical or legal contexts, the distinction is important.

To bleed a radiator, you need a 'Heizkörperschlüssel'. Turn the small valve at the top of the radiator until you hear air escaping. When water starts to come out, close the valve immediately. This ensures the radiator can fill completely with hot water.

This could be due to several reasons: there might be air inside (needs bleeding), the thermostat valve might be stuck, or the central heating system might be turned off. If only one radiator is cold, it's usually an issue with that specific unit.

Yes, but you must use special 'Heizkörperlack'. Normal paint will yellow or peel due to the high temperatures. It is best to paint the radiator when it is completely cold.

Stufe 3 usually corresponds to about 20 degrees Celsius, which is considered the standard comfortable temperature for living rooms. Stufe 5 is the maximum and can reach up to 28 degrees, which is rarely necessary and very expensive.

Gluckern (gurgling) means there are air bubbles trapped in the radiator. This prevents the hot water from circulating properly, making the radiator less efficient and noisy. You should bleed it as soon as possible.

While common, it's not ideal. It blocks the heat from circulating in the room and can increase humidity too much, leading to mold. Also, covering the thermostat can make the radiator turn off too early because it thinks the room is already warm.

You can use a special long 'Heizkörperbürste' (radiator brush) or a vacuum cleaner with a thin attachment. Some people also use a hairdryer to blow the dust out from the top onto a damp cloth placed underneath.

It is a special radiator found in bathrooms that looks like a ladder. It is designed to hang and dry towels while simultaneously heating the room.

A standard panel radiator costs between 50 and 200 Euros depending on the size and quality. Installation by a professional will add to the cost. Designer models or cast-iron replicas can be much more expensive.

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