In the current issue of “Smart Homeowner” (issue #43, Sept/Oct 2008), there is an article on new heating systems. Included is a type of air source heat pump which can operate at an exterior temperature of zero degrees (according to the manufacturer). It is built in Maine by Hallowell International. The Dept. of Defense has contracted Hallowell to supply the heating systems for 2400 housing units at Ft. Dix in NJ.
Does anyone have any thoughts on this heat pump? I am often hesitant to use something that hasnt been put thru the “test of time”, but I am curious as to what the Breaktime crowd thinks of this.
thanks,
jr
Replies
I'll have to look the name up, but if I understand correctly, it's not a new type heat pump, but has the new coolant in it which is useable down to zero.
I just had one installed (manufactured by Carrier) and it supposedly is functional down to zero. My back-up is set to kick in at 20F since the efficiency drops off quite a bit below that.
View Image
Puron.View Image
From what Ive read this heat pump uses a 2nd compressor inline with the primary compressor, which gives the refrigerant pressure and temperature a boost when running at temps below 30. Its also energy star rated.
I dont know if Puron is the type of coolant used as it isnt listed in the company website.
Edited 9/15/2008 3:23 pm ET by jroy
Edited 9/15/2008 3:26 pm ET by jroy
I googled Acadia heat pump and came up with this interesting link..
http://www.hvac-talk.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=158395
Yeah, that's a different animal.View Image
My brother had one installed last fall. He's in western Massachusetts, so I don't know how the seasons compare to yours. PM me if you'd like to get in touch with him.
Z
When I first heard of them I was interested also. The following is what I recall reading, so I am sure some is wrong.
The original patent holder for the technology lisenced "NYLE" to manufacture the equipment, but they had many production and quality issues. Hallowell then was able to buyout or somehow get the permission to be the current equipment manufacturer.
Google cold climate heat pumps. lotsa info.
I think it is a sound idea, but I think I'd wait a few years for the rest of the kinks to come out.
The coefficient of performance will still suck when it's too cold outside, but even if the coefficient of performance is ONE, it's still no worse than resistance heating!
If these suckers run both ways, maybe I'll consider it as an alternative to plain Jane air conditioning in my radiant heated house. Off-peak the power won't cost much even for heating!