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Minimizing Auxiliary Heat Use for Cold Climate Operation of Air-Source Heat Pumps

Research output: NLRPresentation

Abstract

This paper investigates the auxiliary heat use for air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) operating in cold climate conditions. Twelve variable-capacity, central ducted ASHPs installed in single-family homes in cold climate regions (eleven in northwest United States and one in Denver suburb) were monitored for an entire winter season to collect data at cold temperatures. The methodology employed airside and power measurements that were taken every five-seconds, to calculate heat pump's capacity, coefficient of performance (COP), and auxiliary heat energy consumption. This paper provides valuable insights into the practical implications of auxiliary heat utilization in centrally ducted ASHPs and suggests opportunities to mitigate the usage of auxiliary heat, improving the overall system efficiency during cold climate operation.
Original languageAmerican English
Number of pages20
DOIs
StatePublished - 2025

Publication series

NamePresented at the 2025 ASHRAE Winter Conference, 8-12 February 2025, Orlando, Florida

NLR Publication Number

  • NREL/PR-5500-93074

Keywords

  • air-source heat pumps
  • auxiliary heat
  • centrally ducted heat pumps
  • cold climate
  • electric resistance
  • heat pump
  • low outdoor temperatures
  • residential
  • system efficiency

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