Optimization of Residential Air Source Heat Pump using Low–Global Warming Potential Refrigerants
Low–global warming potential refrigerants can significantly reduce the direct emissions of CO2 originating from HVAC systems. However, high-efficiency systems are needed to reduce indirect CO2 emissions. In this study, an R410A residential 5-Ton heat pump was optimized using R32, R454A, R454B, R454C, and R455A. Among these options, R455A and R454C have the lowest global warming potential but have lower volumetric capacity and high glide. Optimization results using 5 mm tube heat exchangers showed 12.4% to 19.1% efficiency improvements and 13% to 33% reduction in CO2 emissions.