Energy efficiencies of heat pumps in residential buildings

Using the state-of-the-art computer program, DOE 2.1A, the hourly and resulting seasonal coefficients of performance of four residential heat pumps were simulated for a typical house in one city in each of the four major climate zones in the U.S. For purposes of comparison a conventional gas furnace and air conditioner system were also analyzed. This study shows that heat pump systems could be developed with seasonal thermodynamic efficiencies of over 200% in resource energy. In addition, sizing the heat pumps according to a building's thermal integrity and operating conditions maximizes seasonal efficiencies.