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Implementation and validation of optimal start control strategy for air conditioners and heat pumps

Journal Article · · Applied Thermal Engineering
 [1];  [1];  [1];  [1]
  1. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
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Commercial buildings are responsible for approximately 20 % of the total energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Over 85 % of these buildings lack building automation systems, and many are small (<50,000 square feet), underserved, and use rooftop units (RTUs) for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning needs. Because these buildings lack proper energy management systems, several operational deficiencies lead to excess energy consumption. Studies have shown that managing the RTUs’ heating and cooling set points, schedules, setbacks, and optimal start can result in a 20 % to 25 % reduction in electricity consumption in small commercial buildings. These buildings typically use fixed schedules to start the RTUs 60 to 120 min before occupancy begins, which results in excess energy consumption. This paper presents research that demonstrates and evaluates the performance of four optimal start methods, which utilize data-based modeling as a key element in facilitating adaptive control in response to time-varying inputs while requiring minimal sensor inputs. The evaluation found energy savings in two commercial buildings equipped with RTUs by periodically alternating four different optimal start models during the cooling and heating season. The resulting energy savings are positive for all models and range from 2 to 5 kWh/day/unit. The units on the east side of the building showed higher savings, while interior units showed greater variability in savings due to the differences in capacities and room sizes. Savings were considerably greater during the heating season compared to the cooling season. The performance of all four models on Mondays was poor; models suggested a shorter optimal start time, which resulted in relatively larger errors. Finally, the future work will look at using a different model for the days after weekends and holidays.
Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE); USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Energy Efficiency Office. Building Technologies Office
Grant/Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
2440867
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 2439078
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA--198233
Journal Information:
Applied Thermal Engineering, Journal Name: Applied Thermal Engineering Journal Issue: Part A Vol. 257; ISSN 1359-4311
Publisher:
ElsevierCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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42 ENGINEERING
energy savings
optimal start
rooftop units
small- and medium-size commercial buildings