Introduction to Issue #33

 

There are advantages and limitations to every type of water heating device. The underlying energy-efficiency potential of heat pump technology creates a high potential to save energy in the domestic water heating segment. This issue of idronics will assist in evaluating heat pump water heater (HPWH) technology in both retrofit and new construction applications.

Figure 1-2

Introduction to Issue #33

 

There are advantages and limitations to every type of water heating device. The underlying energy-efficiency potential of heat pump technology creates a high potential to save energy in the domestic water heating segment. This issue of idronics will assist in evaluating heat pump water heater (HPWH) technology in both retrofit and new construction applications.

Figure 1-2

2. HEAT PUMP FUNDAMENTALS

Nearly all current-generation heat pump water heaters operate on a basic “vapor/compression” refrigeration cycle. During this cycle, a chemical compound called the refrigerant circulates around a closed piping loop passing through all major components of the heat pump.

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