Mini-Split Heat Pump Evaluation and Zero Energy Ready Home Support
- IBACOS, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA (United States)
This project was created from a partnership between the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Building America research team IBACOS, Inc. and Imagine Homes, a production homebuilder of high-performance homes in San Antonio, Texas—a hot-humid climate. The primary purpose was to evaluate the performance of a multihead mini-split heat pump (MSHP) space-conditioning system, which consists of ducted and ductless indoor units, in maintaining uniform comfort in an occupied test house. The research team evaluated the MSHP space-conditioning strategy for its effectiveness in achieving uniform temperature and relative humidity (RH) levels throughout the test house and for overall constructability and cost. This evaluation was based on data that were collected from short-term tests and monitoring during 1 year of occupancy, as well as from builder and occupant feedback. Design considerations for integrating an MSHP system into the builder’s full range of production home designs were also explored, with a focus on minimizing the cost and complexity of the system design while meeting the thermal loads of the house and providing occupant comfort according to ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55-2010 (ASHRAE 2010a).
- Research Organization:
- IBACOS, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Building Technologies Office (EE-5B). Building America Program
- Contributing Organization:
- National Renewable Energy Lab. (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC36-08GO28308
- OSTI ID:
- 1340569
- Report Number(s):
- NREL/SR--5500-64855; DOE/GO--102017-4749
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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