Reversible heat pump model for seasonal performance optimization

Building is one of the economical sectors where solutions are available to significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gases emissions. Electric heat pumps are one of the solutions favored in Europe. Europe recently adopted a conventional primary energy to electricity ratio which enables to compare electric heat pumps and fossil fuel boilers. This leads to an increased consideration for the evaluation of the seasonal performances of heat pumps. Nowadays, the design and sizing of heat pumps are still based on full load performance in order to fulfill thermal comfort under extreme conditions. However, the HVAC industry is switching to designs based on improved seasonal performance. The objective of this work is to model an air to water reversible heat pump that can re-design its components for seasonal performance improvement. In this context, we will present a system model including detailed sub-models of each component of the system: heat exchangers, compressor, and expansion valve. The model converges with the system thermodynamic equilibrium after simulating each component separately. Results obtained are validated through experimental data per component and for the whole cycle. Modeling requirements for the purpose of simulating seasonal performance improvements are discussed.