Performance evaluation of parallel solar augmented heat pump with off-peak heat storage

Experimental analysis of a parallel solar augmented heat pump (air system) with off peak heat storage has been made for a system in Knoxville, Tennessee. The overall system thermal performance factor was determined to be 1.60 for the period November 1, 1979 through February 29, 1980. It was determined that utilization of the solar system pebble bed for off-peak heat storage can substantially reduce electric energy consumption during utlity peak periods. However, further work is required on system controls and system design in order to minimize purchased energy requirements. In an adjacent facility a series solar-assisted heat pump (liquid system) without controlled off-peak heat storage has been operating for the same time period as the parallel system. The overall system performance factor was determined to be 2.33 for the series system.