System optimization and experimental research on air source heat pump water heater

This paper deals with the system optimization of air source heat pump water heater (ASHPWH), including calculating and testing. The ASHPWH system consists of a heat pump, a water tank and connecting pipes. Air energy is absorbed at the evaporator and pumped to storage tank via a Rankine cycle. The coil pipe/condenser releases condensing heat of the refrigerant to the water side. An ASHPWH using a rotary compressor heated the water from initial temperature to the set temperature (55 degrees C). The capillary tube length, the filling quantity of refrigerant, the condenser coil tube length and system matching are discussed accordingly. From the testing results, it could be seen that the system performance COP could be improved obviously. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.