H&C 5 - How to Get the Heat Out of a Heat Pump

Thursday, May 19, 2005  ·  10:40 AM - 12:20 PM

Heating & Cooling

H&C 5 AIA, ASHI, NATE, RESNET

How to Get the Heat Out of a Heat Pump

Heat pumps are often promoted as the most efficient form of home heating. The HSPF rating of compressor-based equipment only tells part of the story. Factors such as system sizing (“tons”), control settings, and duct performance, affect the actual efficiency of a heat pump and the bottom line for the consumer. Learn how these factors can work together to deliver comfort and efficiency and where to look for solutions when there are comfort problems and high bills. Data from recent field studies will be presented.

A review of heat pump function will occur during the session, but participants should have some familiarity with the workings of a customary air-source heat pump.

By attending this session, participants will

1. Learn how to size a residential heat pump for optimum efficiency

2. Understand how control settings influence energy usage and the “bottom line”

3. Have increased appreciation for the critical importance of duct performance in determining overall heat pump system efficiency

Keywords: heat pumps, overall heating system efficiency, heating system controls, sizing, duct leakage, heating systems

Bob Davis, Ecotope, Inc., Portland, OR

Paul Francisco, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL

Type: 100 Minute Session
Track: Heating & Cooling
CEU: American Institute of Architects (AIA)   American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)   North American Technician Excellence, Inc. (NATE)   Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET)  

Course Presenter(s):

• Paul Francisco
• Bob Davis