Efficiency Enhancement Strategies for Water-Source Thermoelectric Heat Pump Modules

Abstract Thermoelectric heat pump is a feasible solution for developing refrigerant-free technology, but most studies tend to focus more on cooling capacity. In this paper, a finite element model of the water-source thermoelectric heat pump module is established. By comparing the changes of the coefficient of performance (COPh) of the thermoelectric heat pump module under different pipe diameters(d), currents(I), temperatures(T), and temperature differences(∆T), the main parameters affecting the performance of the thermoelectric heat pump module are explored. Results show that: within the range of 20°C to 45°C, the influence of water temperature on COPh is relatively small under the same temperature difference; the heat output is not affected by the ∆T when I=7.17A, and the ∆T shows different trends in the left and right intervals: under the condition of large ∆T between the hot and cold ends of the module, there is an optimal working current, which increases with the increase of ∆T.Research has shown that I and ∆T are the main parameters affecting module performance. Under extreme operating conditions, using a specific value of current can simultaneously increase heating power and heating performance coefficient.