Optimization of HVAC systems for distributed generation as a function of different types of heat sources and climatic conditions

Abstract: This paper describes the results from a performance comparison of different types of HVAC systems in a low energy residential building. There were five different HVAC systems which were investigated and evaluated: Ground Couple Heat Pump (GCHP); Ground Water Heat Pump (GWHP); Air-to-Water Heat Pump (AWHP); Air-to-Air Heat Pump (AAHP); and Boiler & Split (B&S) systems applied respectively for heating and cooling seasons. These HVAC systems were implemented in one residential-complex which consisted of a three-story block subdivided into 15 apartments with total floor area of 1050m2. Year-round dynamic simulations were carried out using Energy Plus based on three different climatic conditions from northern, central and southern Italy. The climates of cities Milan, Rome and Palermo were used respectively in order to estimate potential energy savings among HVAC systems for each site location. It was found that in Milan, AAHP & AWHP heat pump systems save 14.8% and 23.3% primary energy respectively compared to the B&S system, while GCHP and GWHP systems save 59.6% and 62.6% respectively. A techno-economic analysis for a twenty year period was also carried out for each specific case. It was observed that the GWHP case becomes economically feasible after 9 years with respect to other cases for the Milan case study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]