Solar-assisted heat pump systems: Assessment of an example using profiled steel cladding

Abstract

Correlation equations are presented which describe the in-situ performance of an air-source heat pump installed in a UK domestic residence. The equations are used for assessing the effect on overall system performance of heat pump solar assistance provided by profiled steel cladding acting as an air preheater. Results are compared with those for the cases of conventional tile roof preheating, and no preheating at all, and the assessment procedure is validated with reference to measured data for the tile roof case. It is shown that system performance can be enhanced by use of the cladding. However, the effects of fan power and defrost cycling are shown to be important, and it is concluded that a full investigation of the cost effectiveness of such a system is warranted before application on a larger scale.

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