The HVAC/R sector is embarking on a technological transition as heat pumps gain traction during a time where Canada looks at decarbonization
n Government update
n Geothermal 101
n Retrofitting to a heat pump
n Heat recovery
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Canadian provinces and territories are set to adopt CSA B52 by the end of 2024, which marks the official adoption of A2L refrigerants into Canadian mechanical rooms.
By Martin Luymes
View the full presentation on “Government Policy Update on Decarbonization in HVAC/R Industry” here:
The HVAC/R industry has always been affected by evolving regulations and shifts in government policy, and lately, it has been going through some profound changes that are shaking up the marketplace. One way or the other, anyone with an interest in the future of their business will be wise to pay attention to these trends and assessing what they might mean.
Following the signing of the Paris Climate Agreement, almost nine years ago, Canada set in motion plans to reduce carbon emissions in various sectors of the economy. Among the more conspicuous policies introduced by the government was the highly visible (and widely disliked) price on carbon. In the buildings sector, which contributes between 10 per cent and 20 per cent of emissions in the country, programs like Greener Homes and net-zero energy ready building codes have made a small dent, but the needle hasn’t moved much. Despite its efforts, Canada lags behind all other G7 nations in reducing carbon emissions.
Canada is still behind other G7 nations in reducing its carbon emissions.
More recently, the main tool for accomplishing carbon emission reductions is the Green Buildings Strategy, described by Natural Resources Canada as a “bundle of policy measures aimed at promoting decarbonization in the buildings sector.”
Measured against expectations, the federal Green Buildings Strategy comes up short, mostly including measures that had already been announced in the prior six months.
The plan includes a commitment
to reduce embodied carbon in federal investments in public infrastructure assets and ensuring all new federal buildings, including Crown Corporations’ buildings. There is the promise of a new version of Greener Homes called the “Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program,” which will offer larger grants covering the full costs for homeowners to convert to heat pumps in low incomequalified households. All signs point towards a spring 2025 release date.
The plan also promises renewed energy efficiency programming to ensure industry has the support needed to advance energy management systems and higher building code tiers. Perhaps most impactful is a commitment to eliminate the import and sale of air conditioning systems in favour of heat pumps, but no timeline has been laid out for that.
While the Green Building Strategy has fallen short of expectations and brings no immediate changes, other recent measures offer something substantive for HVAC/R businesses. For instance, the federal clean technology investment tax credits offer an attractive 30 per cent tax credit for geothermal and air-source heat pumps in commercial applications. The program is retroactive to April 2023 and includes a requirement that work must be completed by skilled tradespersons.
The refrigerant transition, particularly the phase-down of HFCs, presents another major challenge for the HVAC/R industry. For the past year or more, industry has expressed concern about Canada’s potential misalignment with the approach taken in the U.S., which might risk product chain disruptions and reduction in product choice.
Thankfully, industry pressure on the federal government has resulted in a timely review of the federal ozone depleting substances and halocarbon alternatives regulation.
A more critical component of the refrigerant transition is the timely adoption of the recently revised CSA B52 (2023) Mechanical Refrigeration Code in all provinces and territories. The adoption of this standard and its integration into building codes will be vital in facilitating the installation of new, lower-GWP refrigerant (A2L) charged equipment. Current provincial codes don’t permit the installation of A2L refrigerants, which impedes the adoption of newer, more environmentally friendly technologies. Almost all provinces now have committed to adopt CSA B52:23 before the end of 2024. A successful transition will require significant training efforts to upskill technicians in safe refrigerant handling practices.
Martin Luymes is the vice president of government and stakeholder relations at the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI). Luymes is responsible for the government relations and industry advocacy work of the association. He can be reached at mluymes@hrai.ca.
CO2 heat pump water heaters can also achieve a COP between one and three, which tend to be more effective than other products on the market.
By Francesco Lo Presti
Information taken from Kashif Muhammad’s, commercial sales manager in Ontario for Mitsubishi Electric Sales Canada, presentation on “Decarbonizing DHW using CO2 Heat Pumps” on Sept. 18. View the full presentation here:
Residential and commercial applications have turned to heat pumps to solve its building’s heating and cooling needs. The technology is becoming more and more popular. The global heat pump market is currently valued at $84.6 billion USD and is projected to reach $202.2 billion by 2034, according to a report from the market research firm, Fact.MR.
When it comes to domestic hot water applications, heat pumps have grown increasingly in popularity due to its energy efficiency and environmental benefits.
A heat pump water heater works the same way as a refrigerator does, but in reverse. Instead of cooling the air inside a compartment, it extracts heat from the surrounding air and uses it to heat water in a storage tank.
The heat absorption takes place within the unit itself. Usually located on top of the water storage tank, a fan pulls in air from the surrounding environment. This air passes over an evaporator coil filled with a refrigerant, a fluid that absorbs heat from the air and evaporates into a gas. This refrigerant gas is then
compressed by the compressor, which increases its temperature. The hot gas flows through the condenser coil wrapped around or within the water tank.
Now, one specific type of heat pump water heater that is starting to gain a lot of attention is carbon dioxide (CO2) heat pumps. For heating water, CO2 heat pumps function by utilizing carbon dioxide as the refrigerant in a closedloop system to extract heat from the surrounding air or water.
CO2 heat pumps offer an extremely low amount of global warming potential and have an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero. CO2 heat pump water heaters can also achieve a COP between one and three, which is more effective than electric heaters and gas boilers. For example, electric heaters achieve a COP of one, and a conventional gas boiler typically achieves a COP of just under one. However, it is important to remember that COP can vary depending on the outside air temperature.
With more regulations coming into effect regarding the phase-outs and phase-downs of higher GWP refrigerants, including the Kigali Amendment
1: When a compressor operates at high pressures, this results in higher water temperatures.
to the Montreal Protocol, these heat pumps will be a viable energy-efficient alternative for building owners. These heat pumps are effective for heating and cooling homes and a viable alternative for domestic hot water (DHW).
CO2 heat pumps have been designed and manufactured for commercial hot water heating applications since the 1970s.
When discussing water heating, there are two types of systems: low recovery/ high storage (LR/HS) and high recovery/low storage (HR/LS).
LR/HS is a system with a high volume of storage and a low rate of recovery that can satisfy a large draw of DHW volume over a short period of time, as long as this is followed by a period of reduced demand that allows the system to slowly recover its stored volume back to temperature. Buildings typically adopting this system include multi-family buildings, commercial offices, health care, and educational facilities.
As you imagined, the HR/LS system is reversed. This system has a low volume of storage and a high rate of recovery that can satisfy a constant load over a long period of time. This is where on-demand or instantaneous water heaters would fall. Small buildings where the load is constant would typically use this system.
For DHW applications, CO2 heat pump water heaters supply significantly higher temperature water, specifically up to 176 F or 80 C. The reason for this is because the CO2 refrigerant exchanges with heat in a supercritical state. The supercritical state is when liquid is indistinguishable from gas, and supercritical fluid has a high thermal conductivity, meaning that hot water can be efficiently produced.
In addition to CO2 refrigerant, the supply of high-temperature water is made possible thanks to compressors that can operate at high pressures (see Figure 1), adopting compact gas coolers, and using refrigerant circuit control technology that ensures consistent operation.
Application
To achieve high hot water demands, the CO2 heat pump water heater receives
2: A CO2 heat pump water heater works by storing water at the bottom of the tank and then heating it through a heat exchanger.
Figure 3: Basic schematics of a CO2 heat pump water heater, which features a hot water generator, heat exchangers, storage tanks and water temperature sensors.
cold city water at the bottom of the storage tank. The storage tank is then connected to a heat exchanger via a pump, which then circulates depending on the temperature it is set to. From there, a heat exchange from a primary source, which in this case would be the CO2 heat pump or a hot water generator (see Figure 2) would occur.
Regarding controls for a CO2 heat pump water heater, multiple sensors (three-sensor controls) will be ideal if you are looking for large demands of water. The three water temperature sensors will control the water temperature in the storage tank, and the hot water storage operation will start and end according to the preset sensor water temperature.
The use of three sensors allows for the control of hot water conditions within the storage tank. Typically, this control is best suited for systems that consist of a small system and for controlling the amount of hot water supply.
Now, depending on the level of Delta T required, there will be different system configurations. For the most efficient serving storage tanks where high Delta T is required, you would have a single-pass system with high lift. A single pass means that cold water will go in through one heat exchanger, allowing for a high lift of temperature. A multi-pass system will be ideal for a constant flow of hot water recirculation. In this system, you will have lower Delta T but higher GPM.
Various methods can be used to size a CO2 heat pump water heater. These methods include the computer software Ecosizer, the modified hunters’ curves method, the recovery versus storage method, and the hot water demand by application method.
The conversation regarding geothermal heat pumps should shift towards how the technology can relieve the exhausted energy grid rather than simply on energy savings.
By Michael Ridler
View the full presentation on “Geothermal Solutions” here:
This installation chose to involve a hybrid boiler and geothermal system by Micheal
Teahan,
technical
director
at RBSI in the UK.
As Canada continues to shift towards renewable energy and a decarbonized future, heat pumps are emerging as a game-changing technology that can help alleviate stress on our energy grid. However, much of the positive and constructive discussion around heat pumps has focused on air-source heat pumps, while ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps are often positioned as an alternative solution. I strongly disagree with this perspective.
With their ability to provide efficient heating and cooling while consuming less electricity, geothermal systems have and will continue to play a critical role in enhancing the resilience and sustainability of Canada's energy infrastructure. Geothermal heat pumps are also not new. The first geothermal heat pumps were installed in Ontario in the late 70s and, to this day, major developers and homeowners across the country are installing this tried-and-true technology.
An issue we often focus too much on is the energy savings of a geothermal heat pump. Many times, discussions about geothermal systems center on their ability to save 50 or even 60 per cent on building owners' bills. While this is great, should it be our main focus? What does it mean for the electrical grid and power stability in your neighbourhood when someone installs a geothermal heat pump, or better yet, when a developer decides to install 50 or 100 of them?
The facts show that every time we can use a ground source heat pump (GSHP), we will not only save money as the end user, but we will also have a massive net positive impact on the grid. This is something that no other residential technology can currently do while meeting the heating, cooling, domestic hot water, and hydronic heating needs of homes and commercial buildings in any market in Canada.
Unlike traditional HVAC systems, geothermal heat pumps leverage the stable temperatures of the earth to transfer heat in or out of buildings. This method is remarkably efficient because it takes advantage of the natural thermal energy stored in the ground, which means the heat pump only requires a small amount of electricity to move this energy. Because of this, geothermal systems can achieve efficiencies of 300 to 500 per cent, meaning they deliver three to five times more energy than they consume in electricity. This translates into significantly lower power consumption, benefiting both homeowners and the grid.
Data from a recent sampling of over 100 running five-ton geothermal heat pump units shows just how impactful this technology can be for electrical utilities in terms of grid capacity. The data logging equipment on these units collects over 100 data points every 10 seconds in real time, including entering and leaving water temperatures, flow rates, compressor status, power consumption, and system pressures.
This comprehensive data allows utilities and technicians to monitor realtime performance, identify inefficiencies, and optimize the overall system operation, ultimately enhancing grid stability and efficiency. With this level of detailed monitoring, we don't have to rely solely on ARI data to make conclusions; instead, we have real-time insights that offer a far more accurate understanding of system performance. It also allows us to make some interesting findings.
On average, each five-ton GSHP installed in Ontario using this data reduced peak cooling demand by 3.75 kW, which equates to 0.75 kW per ton. The average energy efficiency ratio (EER) of these GSHP units ranged between 44 and 48, with the majority falling within one Sigma of this range, meaning two-thirds of the units showed similar results, which indicates consistent performance. The average power consumption of the geothermal heat pumps was just 0.28 kW, with some units consuming as little as 0.10 kW (100 watts). This data was gathered through 10-second sampling across 100-plus data points.
The impact of these savings is substantial. Each five-ton geothermal unit saves 3.75 kW in peak demand, which translates to significant cost savings in incremental grid capital investment, approximately $6,800 for wind generation and $64,000 for hydroelectric generation. Building new grid capacity in Ontario is expensive, and geothermal systems help lower costs by reducing peak demand, ultimately benefiting both utilities and consumers.
For Canadians, geothermal heat pumps not only reduce energy bills but also help to stabilize the grid during peak usage periods. During cold winters or hot summers, traditional electric heating and cooling systems can put pressure on the grid, leading to higher energy costs and the risk of blackouts. This was recently demonstrated in Western Canada. I am not saying one technology is the solution, but we can not also treat all technologies the same. If a particular piece of technology has a core advantage to a utility and developers building homes, we need to spend more time thinking about it and how we can enhance adoption.
The need for effective load management and peak reduction has never been more apparent, and geothermal systems offer a viable solution to mitigate such risks. Like all heat pumps, geothermal heat pumps contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. All heat pumps are great solutions, and the best choice may not always be geothermal.
In some cases, an air-to-water heat pump that can heat, cool, and provide
On the right is a BUSH geothermal heat pump installed in the early 80s by Gary Boles, president of Menergy Geothermal, formerly Bush Enterprise, and on the left is a replacement geothermal heat pump installed by TJL Mechanical.
domestic hot water can effectively replace your boiler. Other times, an air-toair heat pump will be more suitable, and in certain situations, a dual-source heat pump using both gas and a heat pump may be the right solution. This is without even considering gas absorption heat pumps that, yes, still use gas, but lower the gas usage. Technology is rapidly evolving, and we need to make informed decisions by looking at the big picture as we, the taxpayers, invest in our future, and be sure that we are not just chasing trends.
By replacing conventional fossil-fuel-based heating systems with geothermal technology, homeowners and businesses can drastically cut their carbon footprints. This not only supports Canada's climate goals but also helps pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
Geothermal heat pumps are more than just a solution for efficient heating and cooling, they are a strategic asset that empowers the grid and supports Canada's energy transition. By investing in geothermal technology, we can lower our collective energy consumption, support grid stability, and make meaningful strides toward a cleaner environment.
Michael Ridler, is the general manager at Eden Energy Equipment. He started out working for a Ont-based HVAC company and now focuses on providing field support and technical training to contractors, engineers, and builders on heat pumps, boilers, and all things hydronics. He can be reached at edenenergymike@gmail.com.
Due to Canada’s cold climate, it is best to pair some type of back-up system to a heat pump, ensuring the home or building can be heated when temperatures reach fall below freezing.
View the full presentation on “The Reason for Back-Up Heat Systems in Canada” here:
By Tom Heckbert
This may be a controversial opinion, but I don’t think it will ever be a good idea to install a heat pump in Canada without some form of back-up heat in place. This is for a couple of reasons.
First, it’s important to note that, while we’re talking about heat pumps far more now than we were even five years ago, they’re by no means new. A refrigerator is a heat pump system, it just exclusively pumps heat from inside the box to outside. An air conditioner is a heat pump, again pumping heat from inside a structure to outside. When we say heat pumps today, we’re really referring to those that have a special reversing valve inside, so they can change which direction the pumping goes. Pump heat out in the summer, pump it in during the winter.
But we don’t have back-up for cooling systems, so why is it necessary for heating? The trouble is that the ability of a heat pump to extract heat from a source, like the air outside, reduces as the temperature of that source drops. In other words, as it gets colder outside, the heat pump can deliver less and less heat, and eventually the heat pump can provide less than what the building needs.
Once the balance point is reached, the heat pump simply can’t keep up with demand, and a back-up source, like a furnace or boiler, must step in to help.
There is a balance point for cooling loads as well, but generally it’s higher than most systems will experience.
There might be some that wonder, “Maybe I can just size my heat pump plant to provide more heat? I could use bigger units, but that might cause the unit to cycle on and off too often in milder weather. I could use additional heat pumps, but this adds considerable costs.”
In theory, it can be done. But there’s other problems that can occur, and that is that most heat pumps on the market today won’t run below -30C (-22F). For all Canadian climate regions, this would not be an unprecedented event and, in many of these regions, it would qualify as a regular occurrence. If a cold snap drives the ambient temperature to somewhere below a heat pump’s operational limit, it’s definitely going to be cold enough to be glad you have a back-up system in place.
Even if you can use a heat pump exclusively, it may not be a desirable
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The hybrid approach means not throwing away heating equipment that has life still left in it. PhotoprovidedbyOcean Mechanical
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operation. For heat pumps to be able to extract heat from the air, the surfaces of the coil have to be colder than the ambient air. This means that water vapour in the air will condense out, which is fine in warmer seasons when it drains away, but in cold winter weather, this means the unit will start to form ice. This ice must be removed for the unit to operate. Periodically, the heat pump will move the reversing valve and switch from heating to cooling mode, extracting heat from inside the structure, using it to melt the ice off.
In very cold weather, this can happen every hour, potentially more than once. During these times, you can activate a back-up heat source to keep the system happy, but now you are introducing a considerable amount of cycling into the system, as well as the potential of temperature swings in the occupied spaces, which could make the occupants uncomfortable. As a result, it may be better to switch to a back-up heat source before it’s necessary to avoid these performance challenges. It may also not be desirable depending on utility costs, especially if time of use rates make it cheaper to heat with gas under certain conditions.
When the air-to-water unit within this installation can’t carry the heating load during the very cold days of Canadian winters, this Gradient SyncFurnace will provide the back-up heat. Photo providedbyOceanMechanical
In fairness, most of these challenges are specific to air-source heat pumps, which add or remove heat from the ambient air outside the structure. Watersource heat pumps, like those used in geothermal or hydronic systems, don’t typically have these problems unless the system is designed incorrectly, and the water source is inadequate to cover the load. It is possible to freeze an underground geo heat exchanger if it’s not designed correctly! But these systems typically have a greater level of complexity than air-source systems, and it’s still best practice to include a back-up heat source, just in case.
So, if the recommendation is not to replace a heating system with a heat pump, but rather to layer the heat pump on top of a conventional system, is it still worth doing? For one thing, because heat pumps can fully replace traditional air conditioners, there is some offset in material cost by replacing that equipment. For another, with efficiencies as high as 500 per cent under the right conditions, heat pumps will always be the most efficient means of heating any space, whether or not that’s the most economical or preferable option at all times. If we are to hit our climate goals, it’s simply not possible to get to the system efficiencies we need without deploying heat pumps.
Installing heat pumps will always be recommended when the opportunity presents itself, but designers should always be mindful about the fact that they’re almost certainly going to want a back-up option. Especially on retrofit applications, leave the existing plant in place. There’s no reason to remove perfectly functional equipment when the function it’s doing is still needed anyway. The energy required to manufacture that equipment is wasted if the back-up system is disposed of before necessary.
Thomas Heckbert has over 14 years of experience in the mechanical and hydronic industries, working in various technical and sales roles with manufacturers agents, spec-writing firms, and manufacturers of boilers and water heaters. He has been with Rheem for over three years and is currently the senior sales manager, responsible for all of Rheem's wet products. He can be reached at Thomas.Heckbert@ rheem.com.
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VRF systems are a simple and efficient way to heat and cool commercial and residential applications.
VRF technology is a smart solution for sustainable climate control as the industry looks to achieve net-zero GHG emissions in Canada.
By David (Tae Jun) Kim
View the full presentation on “Benefit of Using VRF Systems in Commercial & Residential Applications” here:
Variable refrigerant flow (VRF), also known as variable refrigerant volume (VRV), is a type of heat pump system that has been commonly used in the Asian market since the 1980s. This technology was introduced into North America in the 2000s and has been growing in value in the North American HVAC market ever since.
The concept of the VRF system is simple. It is a multi-split system that allows variable refrigerant flow to flow into each indoor unit, enabling independent control for each unit. The full potential of the VRF system can be achieved when a heat recovery system is used. The heat recovery system is different in operation compared to conventional heat pump systems. While VRF is also available as a heat pump, it must have all indoor units in the same operation mode. The heat recovery system, however, allows simultaneous operation of both heating and cooling. This application is commonly used in multi-unit residential buildings and commercial applications.
Rather than sending high-pressure liquid, the by-product of heating operation, back to the outdoor unit, the system diverts it to the location that requires cooling. The refrigerant will then expand, evaporate and return to the outdoor unit as a low-pressure gas. In an ideal situation, it is theoretically possible to have no refrigerant flow to the outdoor unit heat exchanger and only utilize the indoor unit heat exchangers as both condenser and evaporator. When applied properly, this concept can make a building highly efficient.
The benefits of VRF
VRF in comparison to other technologies has multiple benefits. The biggest benefit is its simplicity. All VRF manufacturers have control logic built into the system. That means that unless it is necessary, third-party controls are
Continued on page “37”
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The full potential of a VRF system can be achieved when utilizing a heat recovery system.
Continued from page “35”
not required. Once all indoor units are connected to the designated outdoor unit, the system can operate autonomously.
Heat recovery systems can be efficient, however VRF in general is a very efficient system in comparison. Utilizing vapour compression refrigeration technology at any given point in the environment, the system will always have a COP (coefficient of performance) above one. This means that when one kW is inputted as power, the system will output a capacity of more than one kW.
Under rated conditions, VRF systems will generally have a COP of four, and some manufacturers will maintain a minimum COP of two at low ambient temperatures such as -30C. The third benefit is the flexibility of the system. Air source VRF is a modular system that allows multiple outdoor units to be connected to create a larger capacity system.
The average footprint area of a single frame unit is 11 ft2, and the maximum capacity of the single frame unit in the Canadian market is 20 tons. This means the VRF systems require less mechanical footprint compared to a conventional hydronic system, which may include a cooling tower, chiller or boiler.
That said, air source VRF equipment faces challenges when it comes to heating in low ambient conditions. The common minimum heating operation range in Canada for VRF is -30C. This represents that the manufacturer guarantees the unit’s operation down to this temperature. However, heating capacity will start to decrease as outside air drops. This is one of the reasons why some engineers avoid using air source heat pump systems. However, as VRF technology improves, the systems are better in minimizing the derating and maintaining the rated heating capacity at low ambient conditions. The VRF system that is designed for low ambient heating will typically maintain 100 per cent heating capacity down to at least -15C. To counteract this capacity derating below this threshold, the engineer may install auxiliary heaters on indoor units, which activates only when the VRF heat capacity is insufficient.
Hydronics meets VRF
VRF systems are also highly flexible in integrating with third-party equipment such as make-up air, AHU (air handling units) and third-party controllers.
Each manufacturer offers controllers that allow their VRF system to be integrated with 3rd party AHU with an additional EEV kit (electronic expansion valve). This controller will read the pipe in/out temperature, return air or supply air temperature and control the EEV to provide desired cooling/ heating using a connected third-party DX coil. This concept can be useful for retrofitting the existing AHU as well as providing efficient electric solutions for new buildings. Some manufacturers also offer controllers that use the heat recovery system’s simultaneous heating and cooling operation for the make- up air dehumidification, reheating air with the hot gas line while the main coil provides cooling for dehumidification.
Despite these benefits, hydronics systems are still preferred in some cases. VRF systems have some options for hydronic solutions available, such as water source VRF. Water source VRF is a system in which the outdoor exchanges heat with water instead of air. This system does require an additional hydronic system, either using a cooling tower and boiler or a geothermal setup. There is another option to use the VRF system as an air-to-water heat pump system. Some manufacturer’s indoor units have additional refrigerant cycles to create a cascade system to boost the water temperature up to 80C. Another option is to utilize a controller that allows the VRF system to be connected to a thirdparty plate heat exchanger. This concept allows full customization of the heat exchanger capacity depending on the application.
A VRF system is made up of a multi-split system that allows variable refrigerant flow to flow into each indoor unit, enabling independent control for each unit.
As the world transitions towards net-zero GHG emissions, engineers must consider cleaner, more flexible, and efficient alternatives to conventional gasbased HVAC systems. VRF technology, with its efficiency and customizability, is a strong candidate to help achieve net-zero GHG emissions in Canada.
David Kim is the engineering manager at LG Electronics. He graduated from the University of Waterloo with a mechanical engineering degree and has worked in the HVAC market with LG Electronics for the past eight years. He can be reached at david.kim@lge.com.
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Don’t
assume the location of an old air conditioning unit is ideal for a new heat pump installation.
View the full presentation on “Retrofitting a Furnace Central AC to Furnace Heat Pump” here:
Why homeowners and technicians are making the change away from air conditioners.
By Carlos Flores
The shift from traditional air conditioners to air source heat pumps is more than just a passing trend — it’s a movement toward a greener, more energy-efficient future. As air conditioner sales start to decline, heat pumps are emerging as a smart, all-in-one solution to home climate control. Regulatory authorities across North America are championing the transition, aiming to reduce our carbon footprint and help homeowners achieve the ultimate goal: a net-zero home.
A net-zero home is one that generates as much energy as it consumes, using advanced technologies like air source heat pumps, better insulation, and solar panels to reduce energy bills — sometimes even to zero.
But before jumping on the heat pump bandwagon, there are several factors both homeowners and technicians need to consider when upgrading from an air conditioner or traditional heating system. Here's a look at the key points involved in a successful transition.
So why are heat pumps gaining traction and why should a homeowner consider making the switch?
Heat pumps are incredibly energy-efficient because they don’t generate heat — they move it. In the summer, they work like an air conditioner, removing heat from the indoor air and transferring it outside. In the winter, they reverse the process, extracting heat from the cold outside air and bringing it inside. In fact, a heat pump can provide up to three times more heat than the electrical energy it consumes, making it far more efficient than traditional heating methods.
Additionally, by reducing reliance on fossil fuels, heat pumps help homeowners lower their carbon footprint, aligning with a broader push toward sustainability and net-zero living.
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A thermostat is essential for a properly function heat pump and choosing the correct one can significantly impact the system’s performance.
Continued from page "39"
While heat pumps are more energy-efficient, upgrading to one isn’t always straightforward. There are several factors that must be considered before making the change.
If your home is already equipped with an existing heating source — whether it’s electric, oil, or gas — this will play a key role in how your heat pump system is designed. You’ll need to ensure the existing setup is compatible with the heat pump. For example, does your ductwork have the capacity to handle the air volume (CFM) needed for efficient operation? Older homes may have undersized ductwork, leading to poor airflow and system inefficiency. Similarly, the furnace size and coil must be appropriate for the load required by the heat pump. These are crucial details to keep in mind, and they’re often addressed in specialized training courses like “heat loss and gain” and “ductwork sizing.”
Check the electrical
A heat pump requires a reliable power source, which means your electrical panel must be up to the task. Does it have enough space for a double-pole breaker? Does the amperage rating meet the demands of the new heat pump? It’s crucial to ensure the electrical system can handle the load; a licensed electrician should handle any upgrades to the electrical panel. Additionally, proper wiring must be used based on the distance between components, with the correct gauge to ensure safe and efficient operation.
For low-voltage wiring, you’ll need a minimum of four-conductor wire between the indoor unit and the heat pump, and a six-conductor wire minimum between the indoor unit and thermostat if you plan to operate one-stage heating and cooling. A thermostat is also essential and choosing the right one can significantly impact the system’s performance. While a standard multi-heat thermostat (two heat, four heat, etc.) will work, a smart thermostat is highly recommended for optimal energy efficiency. Some of these smart
thermostats analyze factors like utility rates, outdoor temperature, and indoor humidity to determine when to run the heat pump or activate backup heating systems — saving both energy and costs.
Don’t overlook the details
The placement of the heat pump is another critical consideration. If your customer already has an air conditioner, don’t assume the location is ideal for the new heat pump. Heat pumps are more sensitive to outdoor conditions such as prevailing winds and snow accumulation. It’s required to install the unit on a stand to avoid snow build-up, ensuring effective operation in colder months.
If replacing an old AC, it’s a good idea to replace the copper lines as well, though reusing them may sometimes be the only option. In these cases, be sure to use the appropriate flush kit to avoid contamination from old refrigerant oils, which can damage the new system.
Transparency is key when it comes to discussing the heat pump installation process with your customer. Make sure they understand that switching to a heat pump doesn’t mean they’ll never use their backup heat source. Many homeowners mistakenly assume that once a heat pump is installed, they won’t need to rely on any other heating system. Be clear about how the system will work and under what circumstances the backup heat will activate, especially during extremely cold temperatures.
Taking the time to explain how the system functions will not only help your customers manage their expectations but will also reduce the likelihood of callbacks. Proper communication leads to satisfied clients — and happy clients are the foundation of a thriving business.
Once installation is complete, and the unit is up and running, it’s essential to establish a maintenance routine to ensure the system’s longevity. A yearly tune-up is recommended, and it’s always a good idea to set up a maintenance schedule with the customer. Regular maintenance will reduce the chances of unexpected breakdowns and extend the life of the unit.
Make sure to log all information related to commissioning, maintenance, and any service calls. This not only ensures the unit is being properly maintained but also protects you as a technician going forward.
Upgrading to an air source heat pump can be a smart, long-term investment for homeowners looking to reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint. However, the success of the installation depends on careful planning and consideration of several key factors, including the home’s existing heating system, electrical setup, and proper placement of the unit.
For technicians, understanding the intricacies of heat pump installation and educating customers about the process can lead to more satisfied clients. By effectively communicating, being upfront and taking the time to ensure proper installation, you’ll not only provide value but also build trust and credibility in the growing market for energy-efficient home comfort solutions.
Carlos Flores is the is a technical trainer at Napoleon specializing in HVAC systems. With a background as a residential journeyperson, Flores now delivers product training and field support for Napoleon products. He can be reached at CFlores@ napoleon.com.
The push towards electrification won’t be able to be achieved without the use of heat pumps.
By Trane
For related technical training, check out Lukas Glaspell's, account executive at Trane Canada, presentation on "Decarbonization & High Efficiency Electrification of Heating Systems" here:
Decarbonization aims to help reduce or eliminate carbon emissions. To that end, instead of using fossil fuels, such as gas-fired burners to heat their buildings, building owners are turning to electrified HVAC equipment, like heat pumps. Electrification alone won't eliminate environmental emissions, but the goal is for renewable energy to power the majority of the electric grid in the future.
Technically, a heat pump is a mechanical-compression cycle refrigeration system that can heat or cool a space. They transfer heat rather than generating it, which can result in energy and cost savings. Heat pumps are an efficient and practical solution to achieving decarbonization goals. Whether through total electrification or a phased approach, heat pump systems provide flexibility based on budget, needs, and goals.
Electrifying heating systems with heat pumps not only help reduce carbon emissions but also offer economic benefits. They can be more efficient than other forms of electric heating. Lower energy consumption may translate to reduced utility bills, and the long-term savings could help offset the initial investment.
Traditionally, heat pumps were limited to residential use and temperate climates. Today, they are available for commercial applications and cold climates. Different all-electric equipment types like VRF, packaged units, split systems, and chillers can be considered heat pumps.
Selecting the best electrified heating system depends on factors like climate
zone, ambient conditions, and the need for defrost cycles. Dual fuel (natural gas) and auxiliary (electric resistance) backups can compensate for limitations.
In temperate climates, heat pumps operate efficiently year-round. In colder climates, advanced heat pump technologies and auxiliary heating systems ensure reliable performance even in extreme temperatures.
Advanced systems may use thermal energy storage, higher leaving hot water temperatures, and cascade systems to optimize heating sources. This adaptability makes heat pumps a viable solution for a wide range of geographical locations.
Research by Project Drawdown indicates that building automated software (BAS) can boost heating and cooling efficiency by over 20 per cent and reduce energy use for lighting and appliances by eight per cent. Expanding BAS adoption could save building owners trillions in operating costs and avoid significant CO2 emissions by 2050.
A VRF system consists of an outdoor unit and up to 50 indoor units connected via refrigerant lines and a communications network. Each zone has its own indoor unit(s) and set point. VRF heat pumps extract ambient heat from outdoor air or a water source and bring it inside the building. During cooling, they reverse the process; indoor units transfer excess heat from zones to the outdoor unit, which then rejects the heat.
As previously covered, heat pumps consolidate heating and cooling into one all-electric, multi-zone system. Instead of burning fossil fuels, VRF heat
pumps provide heating to zones by introducing ambient heat that the outdoor unit extracts from the air or a nearby water source.
It utilizes a heat recovery cycle, which uses a branch circuit controller to provide simultaneous heating and cooling, increasing energy efficiency. They can move heat from zones that require cooling to zones that require heating. By repurposing thermal energy that would have been rejected by the outdoor unit, heat recovery systems increase total applied capacity and energy efficiency.
Unlike the branch controller in a conventional VRF system, which directs refrigerant capable of heating or cooling to the various zone-level terminal units, heat recovery hydronic VRF uses a hybrid branch controller to direct hot or cold water to terminal units, increasing flexibility and reducing refrigerant use.
Hydronic systems use water to transfer energy for heating or cooling. Depending on the application, a hydronic system can extract heat from an air or water source and deliver hot water for heating. They are suitable for small to large commercial buildings and can include various technologies like packaged units, split systems, chillers, boilers, and auxiliary heat pumps.
For small to mid-size applications, these heat pumps are designed for ease of retrofit. They share a similar footprint to gas heat counterparts but may require dual fuel or auxiliary backup in cold climates.
A hybrid dual-fuel system combines electric heat pump technology with a natural gas or propane furnace that turns on only when needed. Whereas a packaged rooftop provides cooling or heating that is up to 450 per cent more efficient than a gas furnace.
When rooftop access is not ideal, split systems are simple and inexpensive alternatives but are not recommended for extremely cold climates.
Water-source heat pumps (WSHP) typically heat or cool a particular zone in a building. A reversing valve allows the WSHP to reverse the direction of refrigerant flow and change the operation of the refrigeration circuit to provide either cooling or heating.
For mid to large size applications, modern chillers can do more than cool spaces. They can heat, cool or do both at the same time by moving heat from a lower to a higher energy state.
When a building is heating-dominant, water-cooled chillers may be controlled to the hot water set point to primarily provide heat. When a
As technology evolves, heat pump systems will become a key piece in sustainable building practices.
VRF heat pumps use a heat recovery cycle, which uses a branch circuit controller to provide both heating and cooling.
building is cooling dominant, heat recovery provides heating and cooling at the same time by using existing heat from the cooling process. This requires a simultaneous demand for cooling and heating to be beneficial.
The future of heat pump technology is promising, with ongoing advancements aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Innovations such as smart controls, integration with renewable energy sources, and improved materials will further enhance the performance and adoption of heat pumps. As technology evolves, heat pumps will become an even more integral part of sustainable building practices.
Building electrification through heat pump technology is a crucial step towards achieving decarbonization goals. With a variety of sustainable systems available, building owners can choose the best solution for their specific needs.
The Total Hydronic Heat Pump Solution for heating, cooling, and domestic hot water
Residential Air-to-Water Heat Pump System featuring an outdoor unit, an indoor unit and a steel buffer tank (20 gal). Pairs with Vitocell 100-V 53, 66 and 79 gallon indirect tanks. 3 sizes available: 20 to 51 MBH for cooling / 28 to 78 MBH for heating.
Franklin Electric, Fort Wayne, Indiana, announces several product enhancements to its FPS submersible wastewater pump portfolio, including new NC series solids handling pump models and a design enhancement to its IGP series retrofit kit for grinder pumps. New 4NCH models have been added to the lineup to deliver performance up to 20 horsepower. These pumps offer increased capacity and efficiency, making them suitable for storm dewatering, commercial sewage transfer, and industrial wastewater applications. The FPS IGP series retrofit kit is ideal for direct replacement of positive displacement grinder pump systems. The design removes the junction box. Franklin Electric u www.franklin-electric.com
Armstrong Fluid Technology, Toronto, Ont., introduces new, larger sizes of the Design Envelope Tango, a compact, low-carbon dual pump that ensures uninterrupted service. It includes two motors and two impeller assemblies in a single casing. Integrated valves can isolate one side of the pump for service, without interrupting flow or affecting occupant comfort. New sizes are now available with motors ranging from 15 to 40 horsepower and are capable of serving applications up to 2,000 GPM or 160 ft. of pressure. Because the two rotating devices share a single casing, installation requires less piping. In addition, the vertical in-line orientation means the pump is installed in the piping and doesn’t require an inertia base. Armstrong Fluid Technology u www.armstrongfluidtechnology.com
Wilo, Calgary, Alta., announces its new Atmos Tera-sch-he axially split case pump. Ideal for HVAC, water supply, and process applications, it has a head range of 65 ft. to 770 ft. and a flow range of 1,000 GPM to 20,500 GPM. The centrifugal pump is available in a single-stage design and is delivered as a complete unit, including pump with coupling, coupling guard, motor, and baseplate, or without motor or only pump hydraulics. The pump’s easy maintenance design and high efficiency across the characteristic curve ensures low-wearing and energy efficient operation and contributes to the consistent water supply.
Wilo u www.wilo.com
Taco Comfort Solutions, Milton, Ont., introduces its vertical multi-stage pump. It is available from five to 500 GPM, with all 315 stainless steel hydraulics for durability, efficiency, and performance. It features a head range of up to 750 ft. and has a maximum working pressure of up to 460 PSI. The vertical multi-stage pump features a removable stainless steel seal plate with jack screw tabs to provide an easy service job. In-line suction and discharge connections with round ANSI flanges fit a wide range of applications. It is ideal for HVAC, water supply and pressure boosting, light industry, and irrigation and agriculture applications
Taco Comfort Solutions u www.tacocomfort.com
Liberty Pumps, Bergen, New York, introduces its model 606 compact drain pump. Factory pre-assembled, it is ready to install right from the box. Its short profile design is ideal for compact areas, as it sits at 10-inches tall with a base to top inlet flange. The float switch and pump serviceability via access cover. It is serviceable via a removable pump cartridge and features floor-level size inlets with integral check valves and couplings included for convenient plumbing. It is ideal for bar sinks, laundry trays, dehumidifiers, utility sinks, gray wastewater drainage below gravity lines, and showers.
Liberty Pumps u www.liberypumps.com
Grundfos, Oakville, Ont., introduces its SEV and SE1 pumps, which are designed for handling wastewater, process water, and unscreened raw sewage in heavy-duty municipal, utility, and industrial applications. Both pumps are available with single-channel or SuperVortex impellers, allowing for free passage of solids up to four-inches. This reduces the risk of clogging. The SEV and SE1 pumps can be used in permanent dry or submerged installations of an auto-coupling system or with a fixed pipe connection. The pumps are also suitable for freestanding installations or as portable pumps.
Grundfos u www.grundfos.ca
Built with AquaPLEX engineered duplex stainless steel in a highly specialized process, PVI water heaters offer unbeatable reliability and extended product life at lower operating costs.
• Ultra-durable construction protects against chloride stress corrosion cracking
• Highly resistant to aqueous corrosion in potable water at any temperature
• Eliminates the need for tank linings or anode rods
• Customizable and configurable for your site
• Units available in numerous sizes
• Multiple energy sources available, including gas, electric, boiler water, oil and more
