Vertical packaged heat pump field study in multifamily and hospitality buildings
Overview
Multifamily and hospitality buildings that use ducted forced-air systems for space conditioning often rely on natural gas for heating. These building types present a strong opportunity for electrification through heat pumps. Several manufacturers offer variable capacity, vertical packaged heat pumps (VPHPs) as efficient replacement options that can reduce energy consumption and increase occupant comfort.
This field-study will assess several heat pump alternatives that are new to the market, focusing on general market barriers, system performance and operation, energy and cost savings, and occupant satisfaction.
Highlights
Objective
- Evaluate the market for cold climate VPHP systems.
- Characterize the performance and operation of these systems with detailed field measurements.
- Summarize the performance and lessons learned from the project to substantiate recommendations of VPHPs for inclusion in efficiency programs for Minnesota utilities.
Scope
- Assess market and available technologies.
- Install heat pumps and compare performance to baseline systems.
- Document energy savings and provide recommendations.
Non-energy benefits
- VPHPs can lower living expenses for occupants.
- VPHP equipment reduces short cycling, which limits temperature swings and increases occupant comfort.
Funding
This project was supported in whole by a grant from the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources through the Conservation Applied Research and Development (CARD) program.