Getting the Most from Inverter-Driven Air-Source Heat Pumps
Inverter-driven air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) are a key HVAC component in many low-load buildings. Current technology can be efficient even in cold climates, but several recent studies in the Northeast have highlighted a dramatic range in installed efficiencies and performance. Measured seasonal heating COPs ranged from below 1.0 to over 5.0. Robb Aldrich, SWA Principal Mechanical Engineer, will summarize the findings, highlight examples of very good (and very poor) systems, and present best practices for ASHPs in colder climates. The findings are especially relevant to very low-load spaces (e.g. Passive House buildings), as over-sized systems can have considerable comfort and efficiency implications.
Learning Objectives:
- Size heat pumps appropriately for given load and building configuration.
- Select equipment that’s most appropriate for the climate (esp. cold climates) and loads.
- Avoid key ASHP installation pitfalls.
- Operate ASHPs for best performance and efficiency.