Advanced, Variable Speed Air-Source Integrated Heat Pumps Research Project

The U.S. Department of Energy is currently conducting research into advanced variable speed air-source integrated heat pumps (AS-IHPs).

Project Description

This project seeks to develop AS-IHP products for the larger air-source system market. Development focuses on a fully variable capacity or variable speed AS-IHP option.

Project Partners

Research is being undertaken through a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA) between the Department of Energy, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and a CRADA partner.

Project Goals

The goal of this project is the development of a fully variable-speed version of an AS-IHP product that can provide heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and water heating services.

Benefits and Impacts

It is anticipated that this product can provide HVAC and WH services to residences at 50 – 55% energy savings compared to conventional minimum-efficiency equipment. Based on the 2011 Buildings Energy Databook estimates for residences using electricity as their primary heating fuel and their estimated total residential HVAC and water heating-related energy use in 2010, if AS-IHP technology penetrates 10% of the HVAC market by 2030 the annual energy savings would approach 100 trillion British thermal units.

Contact Information

Antonio Bouza
antonio.bouza@ee.doe.gov

U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy